Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool all day long. This promotes a healthy, productive workplace.
If you’re looking for an expert to install commercial AC make sure they have the appropriate knowledge and experience as well as a license. This will ensure they are able to determine the appropriate tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems to choose from among them, but one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units combine cooling and heating into one unit making them a fantastic option for commercial spaces that require to save space. Also known as roof top units, these types of systems are often seen in shopping malls.
In a typical packaged system, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet, which is connected to the building using sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or heating, air enters the ductwork, through which it passes evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator coils sucks up the heat in the air, and the blower motor inside the air conditioner then moves the conditioned air into the building. The coolant used is recirculated back through the evaporator coils and compressor so that it can be reused.
The parts of a packaged system are situated outside. This allows them to be smaller than a split system, and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is typically more maintenance-friendly because there aren’t any ducts for animals or insects to make nests in, and the components are less likely to suffer from weather or rust damage.
Since they’re a single unit, packaged units can also be less expensive to set up than split systems. They are usually more energy efficient, since they don’t have to heat and cool multiple spaces as split systems do.
Another advantage of this system is that it’s manufactured in a factory setting and the components aren’t subjected to extreme temperatures. This leads to higher performance of the unit and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package ACs, such as gas/electric or all-electric models. Gas/electric models are a good option for regions that are warmer. All-electric models work well in warmer climates where heating isn’t needed. There are also combination units that can be used to heat and cool the same structure, based on the model chosen.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also known as ductless AC units, provide a more comfortable cooling without the need for air ducts. The system is comprised 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 inside air ducting. The system can also be used for heating by using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are typically a better solution for older homes and rooms that have no existing ductwork. They are also employed to cool and heat workshops, sunrooms and garages, and other rooms which wouldn’t be a good fit for conventional HVAC systems. Our technicians can easily install the system. All they need to complete the installation is access to the wall where your indoor unit is installed, and a suitable place to mount the outdoor unit.
A ductless system is also able to provide cooling comfort in zones. This means you can keep your space at a comfortable temperature, while allowing your guests to maintain their preferred temperature. This type of system also has a higher energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present. Some brands even offer incentives to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless system is an alternative option. It consists of an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you’d like 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 option for commercial spaces with many different zones with varying cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit comes with air filters to remove pollutants and allergens, creating an environment that is healthier for your employees and clients. This is especially beneficial in restaurants, where air quality is a key element in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy efficient solution for various commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for different areas in the building. This allows occupants to modify their the level of comfort and productivity. They are also a sustainable solution since they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in various rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts its speed to precisely to meet the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycles that consume energy. The evaporator coils in the indoor units can also be used to provide heat, again with the system adjusting its operation accordingly.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings with a variety of needs. This includes offices, hospitals schools, and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. Low noise operation makes this system ideal for spaces that are concerned about distractions.
The VRF system is renowned for its energy efficiency, which can be observed in the lower costs for utilities. Additionally, the system’s ability to cool and heat multiple zones independently contributes to significant energy savings compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can even be used to cut down on the energy used for heating and cooling in existing ductwork, which is often not in good condition or doesn’t have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling systems because it can quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for offices and restaurants, hotels, and other commercial buildings that frequently change their use and occupying patterns. The system is a great fit for large buildings which are in the process of renovations and construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it complies with specific building requirements. If you’re interested in learning more about the ways that a commercial VRF system could benefit your business, contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’d be delighted to discuss the system with you and help determine if it is the best heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It operates by cooling water and dispersing it throughout your space, cooling the ambient air temperature and creating a pleasant space. This is a great solution for industrial and large-scale facilities that have a need to cool more than just the air.
There are two chillers: air cooled and water cooled. Both utilize vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool a refrigerant liquid which is then circulated through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers have fans that blow air over the condenser and evaporator coils to remove excess heat. They are usually located in a basement or mechanical room with a huge footprint. Water cooled chillers have a water box which connects to an external cooling system like cooling towers. They are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers, allowing them to heat your space during winter. This is a great way to reduce energy consumption for buildings that require cooling and heating or areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than it is to draw it from the cold air outside.
Like a packaged unit maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency in operation and lower your utility bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, along with inspecting and servicing the compressor chiller are a few of the key maintenance tasks. If you use a water-cooled chiller, your facility’s water treatment system must be in good working order to prevent scaling and corrosion.
The type of chiller you pick depends on the requirements of your building and budget. A packaged unit could be the ideal choice for small and residential areas, whereas a VRF or industrial chiller is a more suitable solution for larger buildings with unique needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you determine the best solution for your building.