How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to be more organized than residential HVAC jobs. They require a more in-depth understanding of the equipment and typically work within specified business hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor environment leads to more productive employees. Unmanaged or outdated HVAC systems can lead to distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy environment.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC options for your building including single split systems, multi-split systems, VRF or VAV systems, as well as district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the size of your building and energy efficiency requirements, climate and the sustainability goals of your company in determining which system is right for your business. Engaging a professional service provider, such as Jack Lehr, can help you select the ideal system for your requirements.
A single-split is a great option for smaller spaces and rooms that are separate. It is made up of an air conditioner and evaporator coil which work together to eliminate the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated throughout the property via ductwork. They are typically more affordable than central HVAC systems.
The biggest drawback to this type of system is that it’s restricted to just one room If you want to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to select another option. Multi-split systems are ideal for larger buildings since it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers using only one outdoor unit.
These systems use heat pumps to transfer heat from warm to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. They are also suitable for large offices and multi-tenant retail areas because they can provide individualized temperature control in every area of the building.
You can put in a single-split unit in your home. However, you may find the multi-split systems to be more affordable in the long term because of their higher energy efficiency and flexibility. They’re also easier to maintain, and they can respond faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They also have more versatility and can be used for heating or cooling your home based on the season. This means you can use them to create a comfortable and sustainable environment all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in many forms, and deciding which one is best for your business depends on the layout and design of your building. The size of your facility, the number of rooms, and their location are other important aspects to take into consideration. Another aspect to consider is the type of climate that you can expect in your area. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are well-suited to various climates.
Single split systems are frequent in smaller commercial structures and offices. These are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units and heaters. Each space has an indoor air handler, which is connected to a condenser unit equipped with refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems are affordable to install and ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They’re also simple to maintain, and in the event that one unit ceases working for any reason, it doesn’t impact the other units.
The multi-split system builds on the single-split design by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit with the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be erected on the wall, placed on the floor or hidden in the ceiling to give a more discrete appearance. These systems are perfect for small-sized businesses since they can control temperature throughout the space by utilizing specific controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems since sensors built into the system detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This allows the system to perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a traditional forced-air system, while ensuring the best comfort for those who use it.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRF or VRV system, which provides heating and cooling through an array of indoor air handlers that are connected to outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems can be a good fit for midsize companies, and are particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces since they can cool spaces without creating hot spots or using up energy. They’re also suitable for restaurants and retail locations since they can be installed on the ceiling or in the walls or even in a space that has no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems offer unique advantages. While most HVAC and cooling systems are classified into two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers an unique blend. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones which can be independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets the requirements of its occupants. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings as well as the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can be installed some distance away from the outdoor unit to permit a flexible design and installation.
These systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle with an integral backup electric resistance heating system. These systems have multiple options for heat recovery that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a fantastic option for businesses that want to maintain high temperatures, however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having a dedicated indoor unit per space, they function by varying the flow of refrigerant through each terminal unit. When an area is activated using an inverter or zoning controller remote, the compressor closest to the room is shut down and the pressure decreases. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into the space to compensate. This process is known as volume displacement.
These systems are popular due to the fact that they are able to be used in a variety of ways. They are commonly used in multifamily houses and offices, shopping malls, and other buildings with elaborate floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and come with simple controls that anyone can use.
Like all advanced technology, a VRF/VRV requires expert installation 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 longevity of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to stopping breakdowns and reducing costs for energy in commercial HVAC maintenance can also bring other benefits for business owners. For example, keeping an appropriate and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts the performance of employees and boosts morale, especially when compared to a chilly workplace. Additionally, it can stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires regular checks and tune-ups in order to avoid issues that could impact the business. A technician will perform various tests and tasks in order to maximize the efficiency of the system and identify hidden issues that could result in costly and disruptive repairs. By choosing a company with an extensive maintenance checklist, you will be able to ensure that any potential issues are detected early and fixed before they get any worse.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled technicians will examine the electrical connections, belts, and motors. They will also look for signs of wear and damage, and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils as well as the condenser in order to prevent dirt from accumulating within the system. This could cause blockages and decrease efficiency.
Air filters need to be checked and replaced on a regular basis. A blocked air filter can hinder air flow, overload the system and lead to equipment failure. Technicians also clean the ductwork, fan the flue, and plenum pipe in order to reduce the accumulation.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped correctly to stop condensation or water from building up. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they can run smoothly.
A routine maintenance plan for a commercial HVAC system can also help in ensuring the lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies often require proof of regular maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance proves that the tenant has taken care of the property and is committed to its maintenance.
No matter if you have one split system, multiple units or VRV/VRF systems, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure it’s running properly. During regular visits, a skilled and reliable technician will be able to spot and address small issues before they become larger and more expensive ones.