Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems help keep your business cool all day long. This creates an effective and healthy working environment.
When selecting a contractor for commercial AC installation, ensure that they are licensed and skilled in working with these kinds of systems. This will ensure that they can determine the appropriate tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems to pick 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 excellent choice for commercial spaces with small space. Also known as roof top units, these kinds of systems are usually found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or heating process, the air is pushed through the ductwork and is able to pass through evaporator coils. The coolant inside of the evaporator coils absorbs heat that is in the air and the blower motor in the air conditioner then releases the conditioned air back into the building. The coolant used can be recirculated through the compressor and evaporator to be reused.
The components of a packaged system are placed outside. This makes them smaller than a split system, and they don’t need an indoor furnace. This type of system is generally simpler to maintain since there are no ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the parts are less likely to suffer from weather or rust damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install because they are one unit. They are typically more energy efficient since they don’t require heating and cool multiple spaces as a split system.
The system also benefits of being constructed in an industrial facility, where components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This allows for greater performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are an excellent choice for warmer climates that don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models offer a solution for colder regions. Depending on the model, there are even combinations that can be used for both cooling and heating the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also referred to as mini-split system provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall-mounted unit with an outdoor compressor as well as refrigerant tubes connecting 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 for heating by using the same method in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is typically the best option for older homes or spaces that don’t have ductwork. They are also used to cool and heat sunrooms, garages, workshops, and other rooms that wouldn’t benefit from conventional HVAC systems. Our technicians can install the system. All they need to install the system is access to the wall where your indoor unit will mount, and a suitable place to put the outside unit.
A ductless system is also able to provide zoned cooling comfort. This means you can keep your home at a comfortable temperature while allowing your guests to maintain their preferred temperature. This type of system also offers greater energy efficiency, because no duct-related loss of air is evident. Some brands even offer discounts to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It is made up of an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space that you want to cool or heat, and it is controlled by its own remote. This configuration allows you to have the option of setting the temperature for each area in your building and is an ideal choice for commercial buildings with numerous areas that have different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit is equipped with air filters that remove allergens and pollutants, resulting in an environment that is healthier for your employees and clients. This is particularly beneficial in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is a key component of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems offer an energy-efficient alternative for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control and zoning options for various areas of the building, enabling the occupants to personalize their personal preferences in terms of comfort and productivity. They also offer a green solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in various rooms or zones. The compressor modulates its speed to accurately to meet the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This method eliminates unnecessary cycling that is a waste of energy. The evaporator coils in the indoor units can also be used to provide heat in conjunction by adjusting the system’s operation accordingly.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings with many needs. This includes hospitals, offices schools, and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool individual spaces reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation creates a more peaceful atmosphere and better privacy, making it suitable for areas where distractions can be a concern.
Energy efficiency is a key benefit of VRF technology and is evident in the reduced utility bills that come when you implement the system. Additionally, the system’s ability to heat and cool multiple zones separately contributes to substantial energy savings in comparison to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems can also be used to decrease the energy used to heat and cool existing ductwork, which is often not in good shape or isn’t able to handle newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems due to its ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for commercial buildings, like restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. It’s a great choice for large buildings that are that are undergoing renovations or construction. It’s simple to retrofit existing ductwork and it complies with specific building requirements. If you’re interested to learn more about the ways that commercial VRF system could improve your business, contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’d be delighted to discuss the system with you and assist you to determine if it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a specific kind of HVAC system that maximizes the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It works by cooling water and dispersing it throughout your space, cooling the ambient temperature and creating a relaxing space. This is a great option for large buildings or industrial facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two kinds of chillers – air cooled and cooled by water. Both utilize absorption refrigeration or vapor compression to cool a liquid refrigerant, which is then circulated through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers utilize fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to take out heat. They are typically located in a basement or mechanical room that has a large footprint. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with an water box that is connected to an external cooling system, such as a tower. They are typically smaller and have a lower footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers, allowing them to heat your home during winter. This is an efficient way to save energy in a building that needs both cooling and heating or for areas that have seasonal demand fluctuations. For example, it’s far more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than to extract it from the cold air outside.
As with a packaged unit Maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency in operation and lower your energy bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, along with checking and servicing the compressed chiller are a few of the key maintenance tasks. If you use an air-cooled chiller, your facility’s water treatment system should be in good working order to prevent scaling and corrosion.
The type 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 businesses or residences. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller could be a better option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you find the best solution for your building.
