Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems help keep your company cool all day long. This helps promote an efficient, healthy work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, ensure that they are licensed and skilled in working on these types of systems. This will help ensure they can find the right quantity for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are many different HVAC systems to choose from, but one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems integrate cooling and heating into one unit making them an ideal option for commercial spaces with limited space. Also known as roof top units, these types of systems are typically found in shopping malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that is connected to the building through sheet metal ductwork. In the course of cooling or heating process, the air is pushed through the ductwork through which it passes the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator absorbs the heat of the air and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air in the building. The coolant used is recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator coils to ensure it is reused.
The components of a package system are all located outside. This makes them smaller than a split system, and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is usually easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the parts are less likely to suffer from rust or other weather damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to install since they are a single unit. They are also typically 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.
Another benefit of this system is that it’s built in a factory setting and the components are not subjected to extreme temperatures. This results in a higher performance of the unit and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package AC units which include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are an excellent choice for warmer climates that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric units offer a solution for colder areas. Depending on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both heating and cooling the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are also known as mini-split systems offer a more pleasant cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor draws cool room air through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the inside air ducting. The system can also be used to heat by using the same method in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the best solution for older homes or spaces without ductwork. These systems are also used to heat or cool sunrooms and garages. Our technicians can easily install the system. The only thing they require to install the system is access to the wall where the indoor unit will be mounted and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. You can maintain a comfortable temperature in your home while allowing guests to adjust the temperature to suit their needs. This kind of system also provides greater energy efficiency because no duct-related loss of air is present. Some manufacturers even offer incentives to encourage customers to purchase their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is another option. It is comprised of an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is located in the area you’d like to cool or heat, and it is controlled by its own remote. This configuration allows you to have the ability to set the temperature for each area in your building and is an ideal option for commercial spaces that have numerous areas that have varying cooling needs.
The indoor units all have air filters that remove pollutants and other pollutants from the air, making your space an environment that is healthier for employees and clients alike. This is particularly useful in restaurants and other eateries, where the quality of the air is an important element of the overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems offer an energy-efficient option for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for different zones within the building. This lets the occupants customize comfort and productivity. They are also a sustainable solution because they efficiently re-distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different rooms or zones. The compressor regulates the speed to be in tune with the cooling and heating needs of each area. This prevents unnecessary cycles that waste energy. The Evaporator coils can be utilized to heat the room. Again, the system will adjust its operation in accordance with the temperature.
Zoning capabilities make VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals, schools, and other commercial buildings with a diverse set of needs. The capability to simultaneously heat and cool individual spaces reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation creates a more peaceful atmosphere and better security, making it suitable for areas where distractions are a problem.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which is evident by the lower costs for utilities. In addition, the ability of the system to heat and cool multiple zones in a single unit can result in significant energy savings in comparison to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems can even be used to cut down on the energy use to heat and cool existing ductwork, which is usually not in good working order or isn’t able to handle modern equipment. The system’s ability to rapidly adapt to changing weather conditions allows it to function more efficiently than other kinds of cooling and heating. This flexibility makes it a preferred choice for office spaces as well as restaurants, hotels, and other commercial buildings which frequently change their uses and occupancy patterns. It’s also ideal for large buildings that are under construction or renovation, as it’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork to meet the specific requirements of the building. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about the ways that a VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We’d be delighted to discuss the system with you and assist you to decide if this is the right heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and spreads it across the space to create a relaxing environment. This is a great option for larger buildings or industrial facilities that require to cool more than the air.
There are two types of chillers: air-cooled and water cooled. Both employ absorption or compression of vapor to cool a refrigerant, which is then cycled through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers have fans that push air over the condenser and evaporator coils to eliminate heat. They are big in footprint and are typically situated in an area for mechanical cooling on the roof or in basements. Water-cooled chillers have a water box which is connected to an external cooling system like a tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a lower footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers, allowing them to heat your space during the winter. This is a smart way to conserve energy in a building that requires both heating and cooling, or for spaces with seasonal fluctuations in demand. It’s more efficient to obtain the heat from a heating system than to draw it from outside air.
As with a packaged unit, maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency and decrease your utility bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, along with checking and servicing the compressed chiller are a few of the most important maintenance tasks. If you have a water-cooled chiller, your facility’s water treatment system must be in good condition to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you select will be based on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged chiller is the best choice for small businesses and homes, while a VRF or industrial chiller is the best option for larger structures with special needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your particular building.