How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to have a more structured schedule than residential jobs. They require a better understanding of the equipment and work during designated working hours.
A comfortable indoor environment can result in more productive employees. Old or poorly managed HVAC systems can cause distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy environment.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC system options available for your building, including single split systems, multi-split systems, VAV or VRF systems, as well as district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the size of your space, energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability goals in determining which system is best for your business. A professional service provider like Jack Lehr, can help you choose the best system to meet your needs.
Single-split systems are great for smaller or isolated rooms. It comprises an air conditioning unit, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to remove heat and cool air and circulate it through ductwork that runs throughout the property. These systems are generally less expensive than central HVAC systems.
The major drawback with this type of system is that it’s restricted to a single room If you want to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to choose a different option. Multi-split systems are a great option for larger properties as they permit you to connect nine indoor air handlers to only one outdoor unit.
These systems have heat pumps that move waste heat from warm areas to cooler ones to conserve energy. These systems are ideal for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces since they offer individual temperature control in each part of the building.
While it’s possible to install one-split systems installed in your building however, you might find that installing a multi-split system is more efficient in the long term due to the higher efficiency in energy and the flexibility they offer. They are also simpler to maintain, and they can react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They are also more versatile in that they can be used for heating or cooling your home depending on the season. You can create a cozy and sustainable space all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different forms. The layout and design of the building will determine which system is the best for your company. Additionally, you must consider the size of your building, as well as the size and location of rooms. Another factor to consider is the type of climate you are experiencing in your area. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to various climates.
Single split systems are used in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units and heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler which is connected to a condenser via refrigerant tubes. A thermostat controls the operation of both units. Single split systems can be installed inexpensively and are ideal for offices and smaller areas. They are also easy to maintain and if for any reason, one unit stops functioning, it won’t affect the other units.
The multi-split system is built on the single-split model by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit, using the latest inverter technology. The indoor units can be wall-mounted and floor-standing or concealed in the ceiling to create an elegant and discreet appearance. These systems are ideal for medium-sized companies because they can help control temperatures throughout a space with individual controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors integrated into the system detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This allows the system to operate with a higher energy efficiency than a traditional forced-air system and still provide optimal comfort for occupants.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRV or VRF system that provides heating and cooling through an array of indoor air handlers connected to outdoor units using refrigerant tubes. These systems are ideal for mid-sized businesses, and they are especially efficient for large warehouses because they can cool a space without creating hot spots or using up energy. They are also ideal for restaurants and retail locations because they can be positioned in the ceiling or walls or even in spaces without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems come with an exclusive set of advantages. While most HVAC and cooling systems fall into one of two categories – ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV provides an unique blend. These cutting-edge HVAC systems utilize inverter technology compressors to create individual climate zones that are independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets the requirements of its occupants. This permits a range of temperature settings, and the highest efficiency in energy and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is linked to several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling units connect to the outdoor unit via refrigerant pipes. They can be placed some distance away from the outdoor unit to permit a flexible design and installation.
The systems use high-efficiency heat pump cycles that uses an integral backup electric resistance heater. They have a variety of heat recovery options that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a great feature for businesses who need to maintain high temperatures however, they also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
They operate differently from traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring an indoor unit that is dedicated to each space, they operate by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When the room is activated by a zoning remote or a zone controller, the compressor nearest the space is shut down and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the room to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible they are an ideal choice for multifamily homes, office buildings, shopping malls, and other large buildings with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and have simple controls that anyone can access.
A VRF/VRV requires expert installation, just like any other advanced technology. This will increase the reliability and effectiveness of the system. A certified technician will know the system’s back and forward directions as well as all of the installation nuances that can make or break your new system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides other benefits to business owners, apart from preventing failures and reducing costs. Maintaining a comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can improve the morale of employees and their performance, especially compared to the cold and chilly workplace. It can also help prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or a lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires regular inspections and tune-ups to avoid issues that could impact the operation of your business. Technicians will conduct various tests and tasks to maximize the efficiency of the system and identify hidden issues that could lead to costly and lengthy repairs. You can make sure that any potential problems are detected early and corrected before they get worse by selecting a service that offers a comprehensive checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit technicians will examine the electrical connections, belts, and motors. They will also look for indications of wear and damage and make sure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. Additionally, they will clean evaporator and condenser coils to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating in the system, which can cause blockages and reduced efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters. A blocked filter hinders air flow and can overload the system, resulting in lower energy efficiency and the possibility of equipment failure. Technicians also clean the ductwork, fan, flue, and plenum pipe in order to reduce accumulation.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to make sure it is sloped properly to keep condensation and water from building up. They will also grease the moving parts to let to run smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance plan for a commercial HVAC system can also help in ensuring the lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies typically require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its upkeep.
If you own a single split system, multiple units or a VRV/VRF system, routine maintenance is essential to ensure that it is operating correctly. During regular visits, a knowledgeable and reliable technician will be able to spot and fix small problems before they turn into bigger and more expensive ones.