How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more organized schedule than residential jobs. They require a better understanding of the equipment and work during specified working 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 Unmanaged or outdated HVAC systems can create distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy environment.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC systems available for your building. They include single split systems, multi-splits, VAV systems or VRF systems and district cooling systems. It is essential to consider the dimensions of your building as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate and the sustainability goals of your company in determining which system is best for your business. A professional service provider, like Jack Lehr, can help you select the right system for your needs.
Single-split systems work well for smaller or isolated rooms. It comprises an air conditioning unit, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to remove cool air and heat, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the property. These systems are generally cheaper than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system has one major drawback it is that it is able to only cool or heat a single room. If you want to cool or heat several rooms, you will need to look for a different solution. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger buildings because they allow you to pair nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems have heat pumps that move waste heat from warmer areas to cooler areas to conserve energy. They’re also great for large offices and multi-tenant retail areas because they can provide individualized temperature control for each part of the building.
While it’s possible to have one-split systems installed in your home but you may consider a multi-split system is more efficient in the long term due to the higher efficiency in energy and the flexibility they provide. They are also easier to maintain and react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They’re also more versatile because they can be used to heat or cool your property, depending on the season. You can create a relaxing and sustainable living space with them all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different forms. The layout and design of the structure will determine which one is ideal for your business. The size of your facility, the number of rooms, and their location are other important aspects to take into consideration. Another aspect to consider is the type of climate you are experiencing in your area. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are well suited to various climates.
Single split systems are frequent in smaller commercial structures and offices. These are ductless HVAC systems that feature air conditioning units and furnaces that operate independently. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser by refrigerant tubes. A thermostat is the sole control for both units. Single split systems are inexpensive to install and ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They’re also easy to maintain, and in the event that one of them stops functioning for any reason, it doesn’t affect the other units.
The multi-split system is built on the single-split model by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. Indoor units can be mounted on the wall, laid on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling for a more discrete appearance. These systems are perfect for small-sized businesses because they can control temperature of a room with individualized controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than a traditional forced-air system because built-in sensors detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This allows it to operate at a higher energy efficiency than a conventional system, yet still providing the best comfort for the occupants.
A VRV or VRF is another alternative for larger businesses. This system provides cooling and heating through the use of a series of indoor air handlers which are connected to a single or multiple outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great option for small-sized businesses, and are particularly efficient in large warehouses, as they are able to cool the space without creating hotspots and burning up energy. They’re also suitable for restaurants and retail locations because they can be installed in the ceiling or walls, or even in areas that has no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Although the majority of heating and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV systems provide an unique set of advantages. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and make use of inverter compressors create climate zones that can be controlled independently. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet the requirements of its occupants. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings as well as the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF system, one outdoor unit is connected to multiple indoor units that can be hung on ceilings or walls and be connected. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can also be situated at a distance that is not too far from the outdoor unit, allowing for flexibility in design and installation.
These systems utilize high-efficiency heat pump cycles which incorporates an electric resistance heater. The systems also have multiple modes for heat recovery, allowing them to repurpose heat that would otherwise be wasted. This is an excellent option for businesses that need to maintain high temperatures and also reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring a dedicated indoor unit per space, they operate by varying the flow of refrigerant through each terminal unit. When a room is activated via an zoning remote, or a zone controller, the compressor nearest that space shuts down and its pressure drops. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible they are an ideal choice for multifamily offices, homes shopping malls, and other large buildings with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have control panels that can be operated by anyone.
As with all advanced technology, a VRF/VRV requires expert installation in order to maximize its reliability and effectiveness. A certified technician is familiar with the system from top to bottom, and is also aware of the details of installation that could determine the performance and longevity of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to stopping breakdowns and reducing energy costs, commercial HVAC maintenance can also bring other benefits for business owners. Maintaining a comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can boost employee morale and performance in particular when compared with an uninviting work environment. It can also help prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to avoid issues that could impact the operation of your business. A skilled technician can perform a wide range of tests and tasks to optimize the system to ensure optimal performance and uncover hidden issues that may lead to expensive and disruptive repairs. By selecting a firm that has a thorough maintenance checklist, you can make sure that any potential issues are caught early and addressed before they get more serious.
When you visit the maintenance center regularly the technician will examine the electrical connections of the unit belts, motor, and electrical connections. They will also check for signs of wear or damage, and ensure that thermostats are calibrated correctly. They will also clean the evaporator coils as well as the condenser to stop dirt from building up in the system. This can cause blockages and decrease efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters. A clogged filter restricts air flow and overloads the system, leading to reduced energy efficiency and possibly equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the fan, plenum or vent pipe to minimize the build-up.
Finally the technician will check the drain pan to ensure it is sloped properly to avoid condensation or water build-up. They will also grease all moving parts to make to run smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system can also help in ensuring the lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies often require proof of regular maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Providing documentation of routine HVAC maintenance can show that the tenant is devoted to maintaining the property and will take care of the property’s investment.
No matter if you have one split system, multiple units or a VRV/VRF system, routine maintenance is essential to keep it operating properly. When you perform routine maintenance, a reliable and skilled technician will spot and correct minor issues before they grow larger and more expensive.