Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This helps to create an efficient and healthy work environment.
When selecting a contractor for commercial AC installation, make sure they are licensed and experienced in working on these types of systems. This will ensure they are able to find the correct tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are many HVAC systems that are available, but a packaged AC system is the most common. These types of air conditioning units integrate the heating and cooling process into one system which makes them an ideal alternative for commercial spaces that require to make space. Also called roof top units, these types of systems are typically found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building via sheet metal ductwork. In the course of cooling or heating, air enters the ductwork, through which it passes the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat from the air, and the motor that blows the air in the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air through the building. The coolant used can be recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator to reuse it.
Since the components of a package unit are located outdoors, they can be smaller than a conventional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system can be easier to maintain, as there are no vents where insects or animals can settle. The components are also less prone to rust or weather damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to set up because they are one unit. They are also usually more energy-efficient, as they do not have the same requirements as a traditional split system that must work to provide cooling and heating to multiple rooms.
Another benefit of this system is that it is built in a factory setting which means that the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This results in a higher performance of the unit and lower repair costs.
There are many kinds of package AC units which include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are an excellent option for climates which don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models provide an option for colder areas. Depending on the model, there are even combinations that can be used for heating and cooling the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are often referred to as mini-split systems provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall mounted unit, an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes connecting the two components. The compressor pulls cool air from the room, through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat by using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is often the best solution for older homes or spaces that don’t have ductwork. They are also employed to cool and heat sunrooms, garages, workshops and other rooms which wouldn’t be a good fit for traditional HVAC solutions. Our technicians are able to install the system. All they need to do is access to the wall where your indoor unit is mounted, and a good location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system allows for zoned cooling comfort. You can keep an ideal temperature in your space while guests can adjust the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system also offers greater energy efficiency, because no duct-related loss of air is present, and some brands even offer rebates to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is another option. It is comprised of a single outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you want to cool or warm, and each comes with its own remote. This setup gives you the option of setting the temperature for each zone in your building and is an ideal choice for commercial buildings with multiple areas that have different cooling requirements.
The indoor units all have air filters that eliminate pollutants and other allergens from the air. making your place an environment that is healthier for employees and clients alike. This is especially beneficial in restaurants, where the air quality is an important aspect in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems offer an energy-efficient option for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control and zoning capabilities for various areas of the building, enabling the occupants to personalize their comfort preferences and improve productivity. They are also a sustainable solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in various rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts the speed so that it is in line with the cooling and heating requirements of each zone. This method prevents unnecessary cycling, which consumes energy. The indoor units’ Evaporator coils can be utilized for heating. The system will adjust its operation in accordance with the temperature.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings with various needs. This includes offices, hospitals as well as schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces energy usage and maintenance. The low noise level makes this system ideal for environments where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology and is evident in the lower utility bills that come with the installation of the system. In addition, the ability of the system to heat and cool several zones in a single unit can result in significant energy savings compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can be used to reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling in existing ductwork, which is usually not in good shape or does not have the capacity to handle modern equipment. The ability of the system to swiftly adapt to changing climate conditions makes it operate more efficiently than other kinds of cooling and heating. This flexibility makes it a top choice for office spaces and restaurants, hotels and other commercial buildings that are frequently changing their usage and occupancy patterns. The system is a great option for large structures that are which are in the process of renovations and construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork and it complies with specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about how a VRF commercial system can improve your space. We’d love to discuss the system with you and assist you in deciding whether it is the right heating/cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It chills water and spreads it across the space to create a relaxing environment. This is a great solution for larger buildings or industrial facilities that have a need to cool more than the air.
There are two chillers: air cooled and water cooled. Both utilize absorption or vapor compression to cool a liquid refrigerant, which then cycles through different temperatures. The chillers that are air-cooled use fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to eliminate heat. They are usually situated in a mechanical or basement room with a large footprint. Water-cooled chillers have a water box that is connected to an external cooling system, such as a tower. These chillers are usually smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be equipped with boilers that allow them to heat your space in winter. This is a great way to reduce energy consumption for structures that require cooling and heating, or for areas where the demand for energy fluctuates during the seasons. It is more efficient to draw heat from a heating unit than to take it from the outside air.
Maintaining your chiller like a packaged unit will improve its efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility costs. Some key maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator, inspecting and servicing the compressor and oil changes. If you use water-cooled chillers, your facility’s water treatment system must be in good order to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The kind of chiller you select will depend on the requirements of your building and your budget. A packaged chiller is the best option for small businesses or residential spaces. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller could be a better option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you determine the right solution for your particular building.
