Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This promotes an efficient and healthy work environment.
If you are looking for an installer for commercial AC make sure they have the proper experience and license. This will ensure that they can find the right amount of tonnage that is appropriate for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems available, but one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems combine cooling and heating into one unit which makes them a great choice for commercial spaces with limited space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are commonly seen in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. In the course of cooling or heating process, air flows through the ductwork, through which it goes through the evaporator coils. The coolant inside of the evaporator coils absorbs the heat from the air, and the blower motor of the air conditioner then moves the conditioned air into the building. The coolant that is used up can be recirculated through the compressor and evaporator to reuse it.
Because the components of a package unit are housed outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system, and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system can be more maintenance-friendly, as there are no ducts where animals or insects could nest. The components are more likely to be spared rust or weather damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install since they’re one unit. They are usually more efficient in energy use, as they don’t have to heat and cool multiple spaces as split systems do.
The system also has the advantage of being constructed in a factory, where components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This leads to more efficient unit and lower repair costs.
There are different types of package ACs, including all-electric or gas/electric models. Gas/electric models are a good option for areas that are warmer. All-electric models work well in warmer climates where heating is not required. Depending on the model, there are combinations that can be used for cooling and heating the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, often referred to as mini-split systems provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit, 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 inside air ducting. The system can also be used for heating, using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are usually a better solution for older homes or spaces which don’t have ductwork. These systems are also used to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. Our technicians can install the system. The only thing they need to install the system is access to the wall that your indoor unit will mount and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
Using a ductless system also permits zoned cooling comfort. You can keep the temperature of your space while guests can adjust the temperature to suit their needs. This kind of system also provides greater energy efficiency as no duct-related air loss is present. Some brands even offer discounts to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless system is an alternative option. It is made up of an outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each has its own remote. This setup lets you regulate the temperature of each area of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces that have multiple zones with different needs for cooling.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that take out pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your space a healthier environment for both customers and employees. This is particularly beneficial in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is an important element of the overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are a cost-effective solution for various commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control and zoning options for different areas of the building, enabling the occupants to personalize their preferences for comfort and increase productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently dispersing heat, making them a sustainable solution all the year.
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 regulates its speed to accurately to meet the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This eliminates unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The Evaporator coils can be utilized to heat the room. In addition, the system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings with a variety of needs. This includes hospitals, offices as well as schools and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool individual spaces reduces energy consumption and maintenance. The low noise level makes the system ideal for environments that are concerned about distractions.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which is seen by the lower cost of utility bills. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones at the same time is also a major source of savings on energy compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems can even be used to decrease the energy used to heat and cool existing ductwork, which is often not in good condition or doesn’t have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system’s ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions enables it to operate more efficiently than other kinds of cooling and heating. This flexibility makes it a popular option for commercial buildings, such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their usage and occupancy patterns frequently. The system is also ideal for large buildings that are under construction or renovation, as it’s easy to retrofit into existing ductwork and meet the specific requirements of the building. If you’re interested to learn more about the ways that a commercial VRF system can improve your business, contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and help you decide if this is the right heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is a specific kind of HVAC system that maximizes the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It operates by cooling water and dispersing it throughout your space, cooling the ambient air temperature and creating a relaxing atmosphere. This is an excellent option for industrial and large-scale facilities that require to cool more than just the air.
There are two kinds of chillers: air-cooled and cooled by water. Both utilize absorption or compressing vapor to cool a refrigerant liquid that is then cycled through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers utilize fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to eliminate heat. They are large in size and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in basements. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box which is connected to an external cooling system such as a tower. They are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers that can be used to heat your home in winter. This is an efficient method to reduce energy consumption in a building that needs both heating and cooling, or for spaces with seasonal demand fluctuations. It’s more efficient to obtain heat from a heating system rather than to get it from the outside air.
As with an appliance that is packaged, maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency in operation and lower your utility costs. Some key maintenance tasks include cleaning the evaporator and condenser and checking and servicing the compressor and oil changes. If you are using chillers that are water-cooled, the water treatment system within your facility must be in good working order to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The kind of chiller you select will be based on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged chiller is the best choice for small businesses or residences. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller might be the best option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your particular building.