How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs are generally more structured than residential HVAC jobs. They require a deeper understanding of the equipment and are required to work during specific working hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor environment leads to more productive employees. Inefficient or unmanaged HVAC systems can lead to distractions through the creation of uncomfortable temperatures and a stale conditions.
Single Split System
There are a range of commercial HVAC systems that can be found for your building. They include single split systems, multi-splits as well as VAV systems or VRF systems as well as district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the size of your space as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability goals in determining which system is best for your business. Working with a professional provider like Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your business.
Single-split systems work well for smaller spaces or even individual rooms. It consists of an air conditioner, evaporator coil, and furnace that work together to remove heat and cool air that is then circulated through ductwork throughout the building. They are generally less expensive to set up than central HVAC systems.
The main drawback of 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 lets you connect up to nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems make use of heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, saving energy. They’re also great for large offices and multi-tenant retail areas since they offer individualized temperature control in every area of the building.
You can put in one single-split system in your home. However, you may find that multi-split systems will be more economical in the long run due to their increased energy efficiency and flexibility. They’re also easier to maintain and respond quicker to temperature fluctuations than single-split units. They are also more flexible because they can be used to cool or heat your home, based on the season. This means you can create a comfortable, eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in a variety of different styles. The layout and design of the structure will determine which one is ideal for your business. Also, take into consideration the size of your building, the number and location of rooms. The climate of your area is also a factor to consider. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to various climates.
Single split systems are most commonly used for smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. A thermostat regulates the operation of both units. Single split systems can be installed at a low cost and are great for offices and smaller spaces. They’re also easy to maintain, and if one of the units stops working for any reason, it doesn’t impact the other units.
The multi-split system builds on the single-split design by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit with the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be erected on the wall, set on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling to create a a more discrete appearance. These systems are ideal for medium-sized businesses since they can regulate the temperature of a room with individual controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors built into the system can detect minor environmental changes and make small adjustments. This lets the system operate at a much higher energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system while still providing optimal comfort for occupants.
A VRF or VRV is another alternative for larger businesses. This system provides cooling and heating via an indoor air handler system that are connected to one or multiple outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great choice for mid-sized businesses and are particularly effective in large warehouses, since they can cool the space without creating hotspots and wasting energy. These systems are also ideal for retail and restaurant locations since they can be installed on the ceiling, walls or even in an area with no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems provide a unique combination of benefits. While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems are in one of two categories – ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV is an unique blend. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and use inverter compressors to create climate zones which can be independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control, making sure that each zone is able to meet the exact requirements of its occupants. This allows for a broad range of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is linked with several indoor units which can be mounted on ceiling or walls. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can be installed a reasonable distance away from the outdoor unit in order to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
They utilize a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heater. The systems also have a variety of heat recovery modes, which allow them to repurpose heat that could otherwise be wasted. This is a fantastic feature for businesses who need to maintain high temperatures, but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having a dedicated indoor unit per space, they operate by varying the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When a space is activated with an inverter or zoning control remote, the compressor closest to that space is shut off and its pressure decreases. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into the space to compensate. This process is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are a popular choice for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, as well as other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and have simple controls that anyone can utilize.
Like all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation to increase its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician knows the system from top to bottom and will also know all the details of installation that could affect the performance and durability of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance can bring additional benefits for business owners, apart from stopping failures and reducing costs. Maintaining a comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can improve the performance of employees in particular when compared with an icy work environment. It also helps to prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of focus.
A commercial HVAC system requires regular inspections and tune-ups to avoid issues that could affect the business. A skilled technician will carry out various tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and uncover hidden issues that could lead to expensive and disruptive repairs. By choosing a company with a thorough maintenance checklist, you can ensure that any issues are detected early and fixed before they get worse.
During a routine maintenance visit the technician will check the electrical connections, belts, and motors. They will also look for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure that thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils as well as the condenser to prevent dirt from building up in the system. This could cause blockages and decrease efficiency.
Air filters should be checked and replaced regularly. A clogged air filter can hinder air flow, overload the system and lead to equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the fan, plenum or vent pipe to minimize build-up.
Technicians will also check the drain pan to ensure it is sloped in a way that will prevent water or condensation from accumulating. They will also make sure that the moving parts are lubricated so that they run smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the lease agreement. When leasing retail space, landlords and property managers often require documentation of regular maintenance. Providing documentation of routine HVAC maintenance can show that the tenant is dedicated to maintaining the property and will take care of the investment in the property.
No matter if you have one split system, multiple units or a VRV/VRF system, regular maintenance is vital to keep it operating properly. When you perform routine maintenance, a trusted and skilled technician will spot and address minor issues before they become larger and more costly.