How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to have a more planned schedule than residential jobs. They require a greater understanding of the equipment and generally work within specific working hours.
Comfortable indoor environments lead to more productive employees. Inefficient or unmanaged HVAC systems can cause distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC systems available for your building. They include single split systems as well as multi-splits, VAV systems or VRF systems, as well as district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the dimensions of your space, energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability objectives when determining what system is suitable for your business. A professional service like Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your business.
A single-split system is a great option for smaller and rooms that are separate. 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 around the property via ductwork. They are typically less expensive than central HVAC systems.
The biggest drawback to this type of system is that it’s limited to one room, so if you need to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll have to opt for an alternative. A multi-split system is ideal for larger properties because it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers using only one outdoor unit.
These systems feature heat pumps that transfer heat from warm zones to cooler areas in order to conserve energy. These systems are also ideal for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces because they provide individual temperature control in each part of the building.
You can put in a single-split unit in your building. However, you might find the multi-split systems to be more affordable in the long-term because of their higher efficiency in energy and flexibility. They can also be easier to maintain and are able to respond quicker than single-split systems to changing temperatures. They also have more versatility and can be used for heating or cooling your home depending on the season. This means you can use them to create a cozy, sustainable environment all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in many different designs. The design and layout of the building will determine which system is ideal for your business. The size of your facility as well as the number of rooms and their location are other important factors to take into account. Another factor to consider is the kind of climate you are experiencing in your region. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to different climates.
Single split systems are most common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units and heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler which is connected to a condenser by refrigerant tubes. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems are cheap to install and are ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They are also easy to maintain and in the event that one unit ceases functioning for any reason, it doesn’t impact the other units.
Multi-split systems are an improvement over single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units with one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technologies. The indoor units can be mounted on walls or floor-standing, or hidden within the ceiling to create a more discreet appearance. These systems are great for medium-sized companies because they can help control temperatures throughout the space by utilizing specific controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems due to sensors in the system are able to detect small environmental changes and make minor adjustments. This allows it to operate at a higher efficiency than a conventional system, while still delivering optimal comfort to occupants.
VRV or VRF is a different alternative for larger businesses. This system can provide heating and cooling via an indoor air handler system which are connected to one or more outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great option for businesses with a mid-sized size and are particularly effective in large warehouses, as they can cool the space without creating hotspots and wasting energy. These systems are also great for restaurant and retail establishments because they can be positioned in the ceiling, on walls or even in an area that does not have ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems provide a unique combination of advantages. While the majority of HVAC systems are in one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers an exclusive mix. These modern HVAC systems utilize inverter technology compressors to create individual climate zones that are independently controlled. These systems provide precise temperature control, which ensures that each zone meets the exact needs of the people who live there. This allows for a broad range of temperature settings and the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, an outdoor unit is linked to several indoor units that can be mounted on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit via refrigerant pipes. They can be placed at a distance from the outdoor unit in order to permit a flexible design and installation.
They utilize a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heater. They also come with multiple heat recovery modes, allowing them to repurpose heat that could otherwise be wasted. This is an excellent option for businesses that need to keep their temperature high and also reduce their carbon footprint.
Unlike traditional duct systems, which often require a dedicated indoor unit for each room they operate by varying the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When a room is activated by the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor that is closest to that space shuts down and its pressure drops. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the space to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
These systems are popular because they can be adapted. They are often used in multifamily houses, offices, shopping malls and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are incredibly quiet to operate and have simple controls that anyone can use.
A VRF/VRV requires skilled installation, as with any advanced technology. This will maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician will know the system backwards and forwards, as well as all of the installation nuances that can make or break the performance of your new system and its longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance can bring other benefits to business owners, aside from preventing failures and reducing costs. For instance, keeping an even and comfortable temperature throughout the office can improve employee productivity and morale, especially when compared with a cold work environment. It can also prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
To prevent issues that could disrupt the business process, commercial HVAC systems require routine checks and tune-ups. Technicians will conduct various tests and tasks to improve the performance of the system and discover hidden issues that could lead to costly and lengthy repairs. You can ensure that any issues are detected early and corrected before they worsen by choosing a service that offers a thorough checklist.
When you visit the maintenance center regularly, a technician will inspect the electrical connections of the unit, belts, and motor. They will also check for signs of wear or damage. They will also check that thermostats are calibrated properly. Additionally they will clean the condenser and evaporator coils in order to prevent dirt and dust from building up in the system, which causes obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters on a regular basis and replace them. A clogged air filter can limit air flow, cause overwork to the system, and lead to equipment failure. Technicians also clean the ductwork, fan flue, and plenum pipe to minimize the accumulation of dust.
Technicians will also check the drain pan to make sure it is sloped in a way that will stop condensation or water from building up. They will also grease all moving parts to help them run smoothly and efficiently.
A regular maintenance schedule for commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the terms of a lease agreement. Property management companies and landlords often require proof of regular maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its maintenance.
Routine maintenance is vital to ensure that your system operates efficiently, whether it’s one unit, several units, or a VRV/VRF. During routine maintenance, a reliable and skilled technician will spot and correct minor issues before they become more significant and more expensive.