How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to be more organized than residential HVAC jobs. They require a deeper understanding of the equipment and work during designated business hours.
A comfortable indoor environment can result in more productive employees. Unmanaged or outdated HVAC systems can create distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a humid conditions.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC options for your building, including single split systems, multi-split, VRF or VAV systems, as well as district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the dimensions of your building as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate, and your company’s sustainability objectives when deciding which HVAC system is best for your business. Working with a professional provider such as Jack Lehr can help you select the right system for your company.
A single-split is a great option for smaller and individual rooms. It comprises an air conditioner, evaporator coil, and furnace which work together to remove cool and warm air, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the building. These systems are usually less expensive to set up than central HVAC systems.
This type of system has one disadvantage: it is able to only heat or cool one room. If you’re looking to cool or heat multiple rooms, you will need to look for a different solution. Multi-split systems are an ideal solution for larger buildings because it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers using just one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that transfer waste heat from hot areas to cooler ones to conserve energy. These systems are also perfect for large offices or multi-tenant retail space since they offer individual temperature control in every area of the building.
It is possible to install one-split units in your home. However, you may find the multi-split systems to be more economical in the long term due to their increased efficiency in energy and flexibility. They’re also easier to maintain, and can react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They are also more versatile in that they can be used for heating or cooling your property depending on the season. You can create a relaxing and sustainable environment with them all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in many different designs. The design and layout of the building will determine which type of system is ideal for your business. The size of your facility as well as the number of rooms and their location are also important factors to consider. The climate of your area is also a factor to consider. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are able to adapt to various climates.
Single split systems are the most common for smaller offices and commercial buildings. These are ductless HVAC units that feature furnaces and air conditioning units that operate in a separate manner. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler, which is connected to a condenser unit equipped with refrigerant tubing. A thermostat controls the operation of both units. Single split systems are inexpensive to install and are ideal for smaller offices and spaces. They are also simple to maintain, and in the event that one of the units stops functioning for any reason, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split model builds on the single-split system by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. The indoor units can be wall-mounted, floor-standing or concealed within the ceiling for an elegant and discreet appearance. These systems are great for medium-sized businesses because they allow for the control of temperatures across the entire space using individualized controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems due to sensors built into the system detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This allows it to operate at a higher efficiency level than a traditional system, while still delivering optimal comfort to occupants.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRV or VRF system that provides heating and cooling through a series of indoor air handlers connected to outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are ideal for mid-sized businesses, and they are especially efficient for large warehouses because they can cool the space without creating hot spots or burning up energy. These systems are also ideal for retail and restaurant locations as they can be mounted in the ceiling, on walls, or in an area with no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems offer a unique combination of advantages. While most HVAC and cooling systems fall into one of two categories – ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV is an exclusive mix. These HVAC systems are at the forefront of technology and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones which can be independently controlled. These systems provide precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet the requirements of its occupants. This permits a wide range of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is connected with several indoor units that can be hung on ceiling or walls. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipes. They can be installed some distance away from the outdoor unit in order to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
They utilize the highest efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heater. These systems have multiple heat recovery options, which allows them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is an excellent feature for businesses that need to maintain high temperatures but also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems work differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring an indoor unit for each space, they function by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When a space is activated with an inverter or zoning control remote the compressor closest to that space shuts off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the room to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible, they are a popular choice for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, as well as other large facilities with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have controls that anyone can use.
As with all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation in order to maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician knows the system from top to bottom, and is also aware of the details of installation that could make or break the performance and durability of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to the prevention of breakdowns and reduction in energy costs in commercial HVAC maintenance can also bring other benefits for business owners. For instance, maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office improves the performance of employees and boosts morale, especially when compared with a cold workplace. In addition, it can stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to avoid issues that could affect the operation of your business. Technicians perform a variety of tests and tasks in order to optimize the system’s performance and identify hidden issues that could lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. You can ensure that any issues are detected early and corrected before they become worse by selecting an organization that provides an extensive checklist.
During a regular maintenance visit the technician will examine the electrical connections of the unit, belts, and motor. They will also check for signs of wear or damage, and make sure that thermostats are calibrated correctly. They will also clean the evaporator coils as well as the condenser to stop dirt from accumulating within the system. This can cause blockages and reduce efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters. A blocked filter hinders air flow and can overload the system, resulting in reduced energy efficiency and possibly equipment failure. Technicians will also examine and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the fan, plenum or vent pipe to reduce the build-up.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to make sure it is sloped in a way that will keep condensation and water from accumulating. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they operate smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC unit can also assist in ensuring compliance with the conditions and terms of a lease agreement. Property management companies and landlords often require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance can show that the tenant is dedicated to maintaining the property and will take care of the investment in the property.
If you own one split system, multiple units or VRV/VRF systems, regular maintenance is vital to ensure it’s running properly. During routine visits, a knowledgeable and reliable technician will identify and fix small problems before they become larger and more expensive ones.