How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to be more organized than residential HVAC jobs. They require a better understanding of the equipment, and are required to work during specific working hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor space can lead to more productive employees. Unmanaged or old HVAC systems can lead to distractions because of uncomfortable temperatures and a humid environment.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC systems available for your building such as single split systems, multi-split systems, VAV or VRF systems, and district cooling systems. It is essential to consider the dimensions of your space, energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability goals when determining what system is right for your business. A professional service like Jack Lehr can help you determine the best system for your business.
A single-split system is an excellent option for smaller and rooms that are separate. It is comprised of an air conditioner and evaporator coil that work together to remove the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated around the property through ductwork. These systems are typically less expensive to set up than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system has one disadvantage it can only cool or heat only one room. If you’re looking to cool or heat several rooms, you will need to choose another option. Multi-split systems are an excellent alternative for larger homes, as they allow you to connect nine air handlers in the indoor area to only one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that move waste heat from hot areas to cooler areas to save energy. These systems are ideal for large retail spaces or offices with multiple tenants since they offer individual temperature control for each part of the building.
You can install one single-split system in your building. However, you may discover that multi-split systems can be more affordable in the long run due to their greater energy efficiency and flexibility. They can also be easier to maintain and can respond faster than single-split systems in response to changing temperatures. They’re also more flexible since they can be used to heat or cool your home based on the season. This means you can create a cozy, eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in a variety of different forms. The design and layout of the building will determine which type of system is best for your business. The size of your facility, the number of rooms and their location are other important factors to take into account. Another aspect to consider is the kind of climate you have in your area. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are able to adapt to different climates.
Single split systems are most used in smaller commercial buildings and offices. They are HVAC units without ducts that come with separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by a thermostat. Single split systems are cheap to install and ideal for smaller offices and spaces. They are also easy to maintain, and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases working, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split system is built on the single-split design by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. The indoor units can be mounted on walls and floor-standing or concealed in the ceiling for a more discreet appearance. These systems are great for small-sized businesses because they can regulate the temperature throughout a space using specific controls.
A multi-split system uses less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors built into the system detect minor environmental fluctuations and make minor adjustments. This lets the system operate at a much higher energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system, while ensuring the best comfort for those who use it.
A VRV or VRF is a different option for larger companies. This system can provide cooling and heating via the use of a series of indoor air handlers that are connected to a single or multiple outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great option for businesses with a mid-sized size and are particularly efficient in large warehouses, as they cool the space without generating hotspots or burning up energy. These systems are also great for retail and restaurant locations because they can be positioned in the ceiling, walls or even in an area with no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems offer unique benefits. While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems fall into one of two categories – ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV is an exclusive mix. These HVAC systems are at the forefront of technology and use inverter compressors to create climate zones that can be controlled independently. These systems offer precise temperature control, ensuring that each zone is able to meet the exact requirements of its occupants. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, the outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit via refrigerant piping. They can be set a reasonable distance away from the outdoor unit in order to allow for flexible design and installation.
These systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. The systems also have multiple heat recovery modes, which allow them to repurpose heat that would otherwise be wasted. This is an excellent feature for companies that have to maintain high temperatures, but also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
Contrary to traditional duct systems which typically require an indoor unit for each room They operate by adjusting the flow of refrigerant to the individual terminal units. When a space is activated with a zoning controller or inverter remote, the compressor closest to that room is shut down and the pressure decreases. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are an ideal choice for multifamily offices, homes shopping malls, as well as other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and come with controls that anyone can use.
Like all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation in order to maximize its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician is familiar with the system from top to bottom, and is also aware of the installation details that can affect the performance and endurance of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides additional benefits to business owners, aside from stopping failures and reducing costs. For instance, keeping a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office improves employee productivity and morale, especially when compared to a chilly workplace. Additionally, it can prevent the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of concentration.
To avoid issues that could disrupt business operations commercial HVAC systems require regular inspections and tune ups. A skilled technician can perform a wide range of tests and tasks to optimize the system to ensure optimal performance and discover hidden problems that could cause costly and lengthy repairs. You can ensure that any potential issues are identified early and fixed before they become worse by selecting a company that offers an extensive checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit the technician will examine the unit’s electrical connections as well as belts and motor. They will also look for signs of wear and damage and make sure that the thermostats are calibrated correctly. They will also clean the evaporator coils and condenser to prevent dirt from accumulating within the system. This can cause blockages and decrease efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters regularly and replace them. A blocked filter hinders air flow and overworks the system, leading to decreased energy efficiency and possible equipment failure. Technicians will also clean the ductwork, fan, the flue, and plenum pipe to prevent accumulation.
A technician will also inspect the drain pan to ensure it is sloped properly to stop condensation or water from building up. They will also lubricate all moving parts to make them run smoothly and efficiently.
A regular maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system can also help meet the terms of a lease agreement. Before leasing retail space landlords and property managers typically require documentation of regular maintenance. Providing documentation of regular HVAC maintenance can show that the tenant is committed to upkeep and will take care of the investment of the property.
No matter if you have a single split system multiple units or VRV/VRF systems, regular maintenance is vital to ensure that it is operating correctly. During routine visits, a skilled and reliable technician will spot and fix minor issues before they escalate into larger and more expensive ones.