Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This helps promote a healthy, productive working environment.
If you’re looking for an expert to install commercial AC, ensure that they have the right experience and license. This will guarantee that they will determine the right tonnage that is appropriate for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are many different HVAC systems to pick from, but one of the most popular 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 buildings with limited space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are typically found in offices and malls.
In a standard packaged system, all components are housed in an outdoor cabinet, which is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. When the cooling or heating process is in progress air flows through the ductwork, and then moves through evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils sucks up the heat from the air, and the blower motor in the air conditioner then moves the conditioned air into the building. The used coolant can then be recirculated through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
The parts of a package system are all 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 usually easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the components are less likely to suffer from weather-related rust or damage.
Because they are one unit, packaged units can also be less expensive to install than split systems. They can also be more energy efficient since they don’t have the same requirements as traditional split systems that has to heat and cool multiple rooms.
This system also benefits of being constructed in a factory, where components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This ensures higher performance from the unit as well as lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package ACs, such as gas/electric or all-electric models. All-electric models are a good option for climates which don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric units provide an option for colder climates. Depending on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both heating and cooling the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also referred to as ductless AC units, offer more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing which connects the two components. The compressor draws cool room air through the outdoor unit before pushing it through the indoor air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home making use of the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are typically an ideal solution for older homes or spaces without ductwork. They are also used to cool and heat garages, sunrooms, workshops and other rooms which wouldn’t be a good fit for traditional HVAC solutions. Our technicians can easily install the system. All they need to do is access to the wall on which your indoor unit is installed, and a suitable place to mount the outdoor unit.
A ductless system provides zoned cooling comfort. This means that you’ll be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred temperature. This kind of system is also more energy efficient as there is no duct-related loss of air. Some brands offer rebates for customers who purchase their latest systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It consists of an outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the location you wish to cool or warm, and each has its own remote. This configuration allows you to have the flexibility to set the temperature for each zone in your building which makes it a popular choice for commercial spaces with many different areas that may have different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit has air filters that remove allergens and pollutants, resulting in an environment that is healthier for employees and customers. This is especially useful in restaurants, where the air quality is a key factor in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are a cost-effective solution for a variety of commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control and zoning options for different areas of the building, which allows users to tailor their preferences for comfort and increase productivity. They also offer energy savings by efficiently dispersing heat, making them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different zones or rooms. The compressor modulates its speed in order to precisely match the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycles that waste energy. The evaporator coils in the indoor units can also be used to provide heating and cooling, with the system adjusting its operation accordingly.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings that have various needs. This includes offices, hospitals schools, and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation contributes to a quieter atmosphere and better privacy, making it suited for environments where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology and can be seen in reduced utility bills that come when you implement the system. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones at the same time can result in significant savings on energy compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems can be used to decrease the energy use for cooling and heating in existing ductwork, which is often not in good working order or isn’t able to handle the latest equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling systems due to its ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for office buildings, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial buildings that frequently change their use and occupying patterns. The system is a good option for large structures that are that are undergoing renovations or construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it meets specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about the ways a VRF commercial system can benefit your space. We’re happy to discuss this system with you, and assist you in deciding whether it is the best heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It chills water and distributes it throughout the space to create a comfortable atmosphere. This is a great solution for industrial and large-scale facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two kinds of chillers: air cooled and water cooled. Both use absorption or vapor compression to cool a liquid refrigerant that then cycles through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers have fans that blow air over the condenser and evaporator coils to eliminate heat. They are big in footprint and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in basements. Water cooled chillers have a water box that connects to an external cooling method like cooling towers. They are typically smaller and have a lower footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers that can be used to heat your space during winter. This is a great method to save energy for buildings that require cooling and heating or spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. For example, it’s far more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to draw it from the cold air outside.
As with an appliance that is packaged maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency in operation and lower the cost of your utility costs. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, as well as inspecting and servicing the compressor, are some of the main maintenance tasks. If you are using water-cooled chillers, your facility’s water treatment system must be in good working order to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The kind of chiller you select will be based on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged chiller is the best option for small-sized businesses or residences. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller may be a better solution for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you find the best solution for your building.