Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your business cool all day long. This promotes a healthy, productive work environment.
If you’re looking for a contractor to install commercial AC, ensure that they have the proper experience and license. This will ensure that they can determine the right tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems to choose from among them, but one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems combine cooling and heating into one unit which makes them a great choice for commercial spaces with little space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are commonly seen in office buildings and malls.
In a standard packaged system, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet, which is connected to the building using sheet metal ductwork. In the process of cooling or heating air flows through the ductwork and moves over evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator absorbs the heat from the air, and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air in the building. The coolant used is returned to the compressor and evaporator coils so it can be reused.
The components of a packaged system are all situated outside. This makes them smaller than a split system and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system can be easier to maintain since there aren’t any vents where insects or animals could nest. The components are also less likely to suffer weather-related damage or rust.
Packaged units are less expensive to install because they’re one unit. They can also be more energy efficient since they don’t have the same needs as a traditional split system that must work to efficiently cool and heat multiple rooms.
This system also has the advantage of being built in a factory in which the components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This allows for greater performance and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package ACs, including all-electric or gas/electric models. All-electric models are an excellent option for areas with warmer temperatures that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric units provide an option for colder areas. There are also combination units that can be used to both cool and heat the same structure, based on the model you choose.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, often referred to as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes that join the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it back through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat, using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are usually the best option for older homes or spaces without ductwork. These systems can also be used to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. Our technicians can easily install the system. The only thing they need to put the system in place is access to the wall on which your indoor unit will mount and a suitable spot to put the outside unit.
A ductless system provides zoned cooling comfort. You can keep the temperature of your space while guests are able to alter the temperature to suit their needs. This type of system is also more energy efficient, because there is no duct-related loss of air. Certain manufacturers offer rebates to customers who purchase their latest systems.
Another option is to utilize a multi-zone ductless system which has one outdoor compressor connected to a variety of indoor units. Each unit resides in the space that you’d like to cool or heat, and is controlled by its own remote. This configuration lets you control the temperature in each area of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces that have numerous zones that have different demands for cooling.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that remove pollutants and other pollutants from the air, making your place a healthier environment for both customers and employees. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where air quality is a major element in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are a cost-effective solution for commercial spaces of all kinds. They offer precise temperature control and zoning options for different areas of the building, allowing the occupants to personalize their comfort preferences and improve productivity. They also provide a green solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit has a compressor which circulates refrigerant via pipes to indoor units in different zones or room. The compressor regulates its speed to precisely match the heating and cooling requirements of each zone. This stops unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The evaporator coils in the indoor units could be used to provide heating, again with the system adjusting its operation accordingly.
Zoning technology makes VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals, schools, and other commercial buildings that have a wide set of needs. The ability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces energy usage and maintenance. The system’s quiet operation results in a quieter environment and improved privacy, making it suitable for areas where distractions can be a concern.
Energy efficiency is an important benefit of VRF technology, and it is evident in the lower utility bills that come with implementing the system. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones at the same time also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems can also be used to reduce the energy consumption of ductwork that is not in good condition or doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate newer equipment. The system’s ability to quickly adapt to changing climate conditions enables it to operate more efficiently than other forms of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes the system popular for commercial buildings like restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy and usage patterns frequently. The system is a good fit for large buildings undergoing renovations and construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it complies with specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about how a VRF commercial system can improve your space. We’re happy to discuss this system with you, and assist you in deciding whether it is the ideal heating or cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It chills water and distributes it throughout the room to create a relaxing atmosphere. This is a great solution for industrial or large-scale facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two main chillers, water cooled and air cooled. Both use absorption or vapor compression to cool a refrigerant liquid, which is then cycled through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers have fans that move air over the condenser and evaporator coils to remove excess heat. They are usually located in a basement or mechanical room that has a large footprint. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box which connects to an external cooling system, such as a cooling tower. These chillers are usually smaller and have a lower footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers that can be used to heat your home in the winter. This is a great method to reduce energy consumption for structures that require cooling and heating, or for areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than to extract it from the cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller as a packaged unit, will improve its efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility bills. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with inspecting and servicing the compressor components are among the most important maintenance tasks. If you have water-cooled chillers, your facility’s water treatment system should be in good order to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller that you select will be based on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit may be the best choice for small-sized businesses and residential spaces, while a VRF or industrial chiller is the best option for larger structures with special requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your particular building.
