Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool all day long. This helps promote a healthy, productive work environment.
If you are looking for an expert to install commercial AC ensure they have the proper experience and license. This will ensure they can find the right quantity for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems to pick from, but one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units incorporate the cooling and heating process into one unit making them a fantastic alternative for commercial spaces that require to make space. Also known as roof top units, these types of systems are typically found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a typical packaged system, all the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. In the process of cooling or heating air flows through the ductwork and flows past evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator absorbs the heat of the air and the motor that blows the air in the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air in the building. The used coolant is then circulated back through the compressor and evaporator coils so it can be reused.
The parts of a package system are all placed outside. This makes them smaller than a split-system, and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system is usually easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts to allow animals or insects to make nests in, and the components are less prone to suffering from weather or rust damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to install since they are one unit. They are also typically more energy efficient since they don’t have the same requirements as traditional split systems that has to heat and cool multiple rooms.
The system also benefits of being manufactured in a factory, where components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This allows for greater performance from the unit as well as lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package ACs available, including gas/electric or all-electric models. All-electric models are a great choice for warmer climates which don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models are a viable option for colder regions. There are even combination units that can be used to cool and heat the same structure, based on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, often referred to as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall mounted unit, an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes connecting the two components. The compressor pulls cool air through the outdoor unit before pushing it through the indoor air ducting. The system can also be used for heating, using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioners are typically the best option for older homes and spaces that have no existing ductwork. They are also used to cool and heat workshops, sunrooms and garages and other rooms that aren’t suited to a more traditional HVAC solution. Our technicians are able to install the system. All they need to put the system in place is access to the wall that your indoor unit will mount and a suitable spot to place the outdoor unit.
The use of ductless systems allows for zoned cooling comfort. It allows you to maintain the temperature of your home while allowing guests to adjust the temperature to suit their needs. This type of system has a higher energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is evident. Some manufacturers even offer incentives to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It is comprised of an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each comes with its own remote. This setup gives you the option of setting the temperature for each zone in your building and is a popular option for commercial spaces that have numerous areas that have different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit has air filters that eliminate pollutants and allergens, creating an environment that is healthier for your employees and customers. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where the air quality is an important factor in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide an energy-efficient alternative for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for different zones within the building. This allows occupants to modify their 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 located in different rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts the speed to be in tune with the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This eliminates unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The indoor units’ coils for evaporation can be used to heat the room. The system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
Zoning capabilities make VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals, schools, and other commercial buildings that have a diverse array of needs. The ability to simultaneously cool and heat individual spaces reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low-noise operation results in a quieter environment and improved security, making it designed for environments where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology, and this is evident in the reduced utility bills that come with implementing the system. In addition, the ability of the system to heat and cool several zones independently contributes to significant energy savings compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems are also able to cut down on the energy consumption of ductwork that is in good condition or has the capacity to accommodate newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems because it is able to swiftly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a top option for office buildings, hotels, restaurants and other commercial structures that are frequently changing their usage and occupancy patterns. It’s ideal for large structures that are going through renovations or construction because it is easy to retrofit into existing ductwork and meet specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways that a VRF commercial system can benefit your space. 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 company.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that maximizes your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It cools water and distributes it throughout the room to create a relaxing environment. This is a great solution for industrial or large-scale facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two types of chillers: water cooled and air cooled. Both utilize absorption refrigeration or vapor compression to cool a refrigerant liquid that then cycles through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers utilize fans to blow air over the coils of the evaporator or condenser to eliminate heat. They are typically located in a mechanical or basement room with a huge footprint. Water-cooled chillers have an water box that is connected to an external cooling system like a tower. These chillers are smaller and have smaller footprints than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also equipped with boilers that can be used to heat your space during winter. This is a great way to save energy in a building that requires both cooling and heating or for spaces with seasonal demand fluctuations. For instance, it’s much more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than it is to extract it from cold air outside.
Like an appliance that is packaged, maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency and decrease your energy costs. Some key maintenance tasks include cleaning the evaporator and condenser, inspecting and servicing the compressor and oil changes. If you are using a chiller that is water-cooled, the water treatment system in your facility must be in good working order to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you choose depends on the requirements of your building and budget. A packaged chiller is the best choice for small-sized businesses and homes, while industrial chillers, such as a VRF, is a more suitable solution for larger buildings with specific needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your building.
