How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs are generally more structured than residential HVAC jobs. They require a deeper understanding of the equipment, and are required to work during specific working hours.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Old or poorly managed HVAC systems can create distractions because of uncomfortable temperatures and a humid atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC options for your building including single split systems, multi-split systems VRF and VAV systems, and district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the size of your building, energy efficiency requirements, climate and the sustainability goals of your company when deciding which HVAC system is best for your business. Working with a professional provider like Jack Lehr can help you determine the best system for your company.
A single-split is a great choice for smaller spaces and for rooms that are not a single room. It is comprised of an air conditioner and an evaporator coil that work together to remove the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated throughout the property through ductwork. These systems are usually more affordable to install than central HVAC systems.
The major drawback with this kind of system is that it’s limited to a single room If you want to cool and heat multiple areas or buildings, you’ll have to opt for another option. Multi-split systems are a great alternative for larger homes as they permit you to connect nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems utilize heat pumps to transfer heat from warm to cooler areas, saving energy. These systems are also perfect for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces because they provide individual temperature control for every area of the building.
While it’s possible to have one-split systems installed in your house, you may consider multi-split systems are more economical in the long run because of the increased efficiency in energy and the flexibility they provide. They are also easier to maintain and are able to respond faster than single-split systems to changing temperatures. They also offer more flexibility, as they can be used for heating or cooling your property depending on the season. This means that you can use them to create a cozy, sustainable environment all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of forms, and deciding which one is best for your business is contingent on the layout and style of your building. The size of your facility as well as the number of rooms and their location are all important factors to take into account. Another aspect to consider is the type of climate you are experiencing in the area you are located in. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are well-suited to various climates.
Single split systems are most used in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space has an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. A thermostat controls the operation of both units. Single split systems are affordable to install and ideal for smaller offices and spaces. They’re also simple to maintain, and if one of the units stops functioning for any reason, it doesn’t affect the other units.
The multi-split model builds on the single-split system by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit, using the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be put on the wall, placed on the floor or hidden in the ceiling for a more discrete appearance. These systems are great for small-sized businesses since they can help control temperatures across the entire 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 changes and make small adjustments. This allows the system to perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a traditional forced-air system and still provide optimal comfort for occupants.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRF or VRV system, which offers heating and cooling through an assortment of indoor air handlers linked to outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are suitable for mid-sized businesses, and they are particularly effective for warehouses that are large because they can cool the space without creating hot spots or burning up energy. These systems are also ideal for restaurants and retail stores since they can be installed on the ceiling, walls, or in an area that does not have ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While most heating and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV systems have an unique set of advantages. These HVAC systems are at the forefront of technology and make use of inverter compressors create climate zones that can be controlled separately. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets the requirements of its occupants. This allows for a variety of temperature settings, and the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings and then grouped together. These indoor air handling units connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant piping. They can also be situated within a reasonable distance of the outdoor unit, which allows for flexibility in design and installation.
They utilize the highest efficiency heat pump cycle which incorporates an electric resistance heater. These systems have multiple heat recovery options which allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise be unused. This is a great option for businesses that need to maintain high temperature, but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems work 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 the space is activated by an inverter or zoning control remote, the compressor closest to that room is shut off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the space to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are popular for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have control panels that can be operated by anyone.
As with all modern technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation to maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician knows the system inside and out, and will also be aware of the details of installation that could affect the performance and durability of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to preventing breakdowns and reducing energy costs, commercial HVAC maintenance provides other benefits for business owners. A comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can boost the morale of employees and their performance, especially compared to an uninviting work environment. In addition, it can prevent the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
To prevent issues that could disrupt business operations commercial HVAC systems require routine inspections and tune ups. A skilled technician will perform various tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and discover hidden issues that could result in costly and disruptive repairs. By selecting a firm that has an extensive maintenance checklist, you will be able to ensure that any potential problems are identified early and addressed before they get any more serious.
During a routine maintenance visit technicians will examine the electrical connections, belts, and motors. They will also look for signs of wear and tear, and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. In addition they will clean the condenser and evaporator coils to prevent dirt and dust from building up within the system, causing obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters regularly and replace them. A clogged air filter can restrict air flow, overwork the system and cause equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the fan, plenum or vent pipe to minimize the build-up.
Technicians will also check the drain pan to ensure it is sloped in a way that will prevent water or condensation from building up. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they run smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the terms of a lease agreement. Property management companies and landlords often require proof of regular maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance can prove that the tenant is dedicated to maintaining the property and will take care of the property’s investment.
No matter if you have a single split system, multiple units or a VRV/VRF system, routine maintenance is necessary to keep it operating properly. When you perform routine maintenance, a reliable and skilled technician will spot and address minor issues before they become larger and cost more.