Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This helps promote an efficient, healthy workplace.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, make sure they are licensed and experienced in working with these kinds of systems. This will ensure they will be able to find the appropriate tonnage for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems available however, one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units integrate the cooling and heating process into one system making them a fantastic alternative for commercial spaces that require to save space. Also called roof top units, these types of systems are usually found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building with sheet metal ductwork. In the process of cooling or heating, the air enters through the ductwork and moves through the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator absorbs the heat from the air, and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air into the building. The used coolant can then be recirculated back through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
Since the parts of a packaged unit are all stored outdoors, they can be smaller than a conventional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is generally easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the components are less likely to suffer from weather-related rust or damage.
Since they are one unit they can be less expensive to set up than split systems. They are also usually more energy efficient since they don’t have the same needs as a traditional split system that requires efficiently cool and heat multiple rooms.
Another benefit of this system is that it is built in a factory setting, so the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This allows for greater performance from the unit as well as lower repair costs.
There are various kinds of package ACs available, including all-electric or gas/electric models. All-electric models are a good option for areas with warmer temperatures which don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models are a viable option for colder areas. Depending on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both cooling and heating the same structure.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are often referred to as mini-split systems provide 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 that connect the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room, through the outdoor unit and then pushes it back through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are often a better solution for older homes and spaces that have no existing ductwork. They can also be used to cool or heat garages and sunrooms. Our technicians can install the system. All they require to finish the installation is access to the wall where the indoor unit will be installed, and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can also provide zoned cooling comfort. You can maintain a comfortable temperature in your space while guests are able to alter the temperature to suit their needs. This type of system also provides greater energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present, and some brands offer rebates to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It consists of an outdoor compressor that is connected to a number of indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you wish to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This setup gives you the flexibility to set the temperature for each area in your building and is a popular option for commercial spaces that have numerous areas that have varying cooling needs.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that take out pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your workplace an environment that is healthier for employees and clients alike. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where the air quality is an important element in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems offer an energy-efficient alternative for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control and zoning capabilities for various areas of the building, allowing users to tailor their preferences for comfort and increase productivity. They also offer a green solution because they efficiently re-distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit has a compressor which circulates refrigerant via pipes to indoor units within different zones or rooms. The compressor adjusts its speed in order to precisely match the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycles that waste energy. The coils for evaporation can be used for heating. Again, the system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
Zoning capability makes VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals as well as schools and commercial buildings that have a diverse range of requirements. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool the individual rooms reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low-noise operation results in a quieter environment and improved privacy, making it suited for environments where distractions are a concern.
The VRF system is renowned for its energy efficiency, which can be seen by the lower utility bills. Additionally, the system’s ability to heat and cool several zones in a single unit can result in significant energy savings when compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems can also be used to cut down on energy consumption in existing ductwork that is in good condition or has the capacity to accommodate modern equipment. The system’s ability to rapidly adapt to changing conditions in the climate allows it to function more efficiently than other types of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes the system an ideal choice for commercial buildings, such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is a good fit for large buildings which are in the process of renovations and construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it meets specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about the ways a VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and help decide if this is the right heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that maximizes your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It cools water and spreads it across the space to create a pleasant atmosphere. This is an excellent option for industrial or large-scale facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two chillers: water cooled and air cooled. Both use absorption or vapor compression to cool a refrigerant liquid and then cycle through different temperatures. The air cooled chillers use fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to take out heat. They are usually situated in a mechanical or basement room with a huge footprint. Water-cooled chillers come with an enclosed water box that connects to an external cooling method like cooling towers. They are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also equipped with boilers that can be used to heat your home in the winter. This is a great way to save energy in a building that needs both heating and cooling, or for spaces with seasonal demand fluctuations. It’s more efficient to get heat from a heating system than to draw it from outside air.
Maintaining your chiller, just like a packaged unit, can increase its efficiency and lower the cost of your utility costs. Some key maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator, making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked and oil changes. If you are using a chiller that is water-cooled, the water treatment system inside your facility should be in good shape to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The kind of chiller you choose depends on the needs of your establishment and your budget. A packaged unit may be the best option for small and residential areas, whereas industrial chillers, such as a VRF, is the best option for larger buildings with unique requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you select the ideal solution for your project.