Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems help keep your business cool all day long. This can help create a healthy, productive work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, ensure that they are licensed and skilled in working with these kinds of systems. This will ensure they are able to determine the appropriate tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are many HVAC systems to choose from, but a packaged AC system is the most popular. These kinds of air conditioning units integrate the heating and cooling process into one system, making them a great option for commercial spaces that need to save space. Also known as roof top units, these kinds of systems are usually found in shopping malls.
In a standard packaged system, all of the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process, the air enters through the ductwork and moves past the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat of the air and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air through the building. The used coolant is then recirculated back through the evaporator coils and compressor so that it can be reused.
The components of a package system are all situated outside. This allows them to be smaller than a split system and they don’t need an indoor furnace. This type of system can be less trouble-prone to maintain since there aren’t any vents in which insects or animals can settle. The components are more likely to be spared rust or weather damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to install since they’re one unit. They can also be more energy-efficient, as they don’t have the same requirements as a traditional split system that must work to provide cooling and heating to multiple rooms.
The system also has the benefit of being built in a factory in which components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This ensures better performance from the unit as well as lower repair costs.
There are different types of package ACs available, including gas/electric models or all-electric models. Gas/electric units are a great option for areas that are colder. All-electric models are ideal in warmer climates where heating isn’t needed. Based on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both cooling and heating the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also known as ductless AC units, offer more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing which connects the two components. The compressor draws cool air through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the indoor air ducting. The system can also be used to heat, using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are typically a better solution for older homes and spaces which don’t have ductwork. They’re also frequently used to heat and cool garages, sunrooms, workshops and other spaces which wouldn’t be a good fit for traditional HVAC solutions. Our technicians are able to install the system. The only thing they need to set up the system is access to the wall on which the indoor unit will be mounted and a suitable spot to put the outside unit.
A ductless system can provide zoned cooling comfort. You can keep a comfortable temperature in your space while guests can adjust the temperature as they wish. This kind of system also provides greater energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present, and some manufacturers even offer incentives to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is another option. It is comprised of one outdoor compressor that is connected to a number of indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you want to cool or warm, and each one has its own remote. This setup lets you manage the temperature in every zone of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces with multiple zones with different demands for cooling.
The indoor units all have air filters that eliminate pollutants and other allergens from the air. making your place a healthier environment for both customers and employees. This is especially useful in restaurants, where the air quality is a major factor in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for commercial spaces of all kinds. They provide precise temperature control for different zones within the building. This lets the occupants modify their the level of comfort and productivity. They also help save energy by efficiently distributing heat, which makes them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit is equipped with an air compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in different rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts its speed in order to precisely match the cooling and heating demands of each zone. This method eliminates unnecessary cycling that is a waste of energy. The indoor units’ evaporator coils can be used to heat the room. Again, the system will adjust its operation in accordance with the temperature.
Zoning capability makes VRF systems ideal for hospitals, offices schools, and other commercial buildings that have a wide range of requirements. The ability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces energy use and maintenance. The low noise level makes the system ideal for areas where distractions are a concern.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which can be observed in the lower costs for utilities. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones in a single system is also a major source of savings on energy compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems also have the ability to reduce the amount of energy used in ductwork that is in good shape or has the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling systems because it is able to swiftly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes the system popular for commercial buildings such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy and usage patterns frequently. It’s also ideal for large buildings undergoing renovations or construction, as it’s easy to retrofit into existing ductwork and satisfy specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about the ways that the VRF commercial system can benefit your space. We’d love to discuss this system with you, and help you decide whether it is the right heating/cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular type of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It is a system that cools water before dispersing it throughout your space, reducing the ambient temperature, and creating a comfortable space. This is a great solution for large buildings or industrial facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two chillers, water-cooled and air-cooled. Both employ absorption or vapor compression to cool refrigerant liquid that is then cycled through different temperatures. Air cooled chillers have fans that push air over the condenser and evaporator coils to eliminate heat. They are large in size and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in a basement. Water-cooled chillers come with an water box that is connected to an external cooling system, such as a tower. They are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be equipped with boilers that allow them to heat your space during the winter. This is an efficient way to conserve energy in a building that needs both heating and cooling, or for spaces with seasonal fluctuations in demand. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than to draw it from the cold air outside.
Like a packaged unit, maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency in operation and lower your energy costs. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with making sure that the compressor is maintained and checked components are among the most important maintenance tasks. If you use a chiller that is water-cooled or water-cooled, the water treatment system inside your facility must be in good condition to avoid scaling and corrosion.
The type of chiller you select will depend on the needs of your establishment and your budget. A packaged unit is the best choice for small or homes. However, a VRF chiller or industrial chiller might be a better option for larger buildings. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you determine the right solution for your building.
