How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to have a more structured schedule than residential ones. They require a more in-depth knowledge of the equipment, and generally work within specific working hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor environment leads to more productive employees. Poorly managed or outdated HVAC systems can cause distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a humid environment.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC system options available for your building including single split systems, multi-split systems VRF and VAV systems, as well as district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the dimensions of your space as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate, and the sustainability goals of your company when deciding which HVAC system is right for your business. A professional service like Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your company.
Single-split systems are great for smaller or isolated rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioner and an evaporator coil that work together to remove the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated around the property via ductwork. They are generally cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
This type of system has one major drawback it is able to only cool or heat a single room. If you’re looking to cool or heat several rooms, you will need to select a different option. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger buildings, as they allow you to pair nine indoor air handlers with just one outdoor unit.
These systems feature heat pumps that move waste heat from warm areas to cooler ones to conserve energy. They are also suitable for large office spaces and multi-tenant retail space because they provide individual temperature control in each area of the building.
While it’s possible to have single-split systems in your building but you may find that installing multi-split systems are more efficient in the long term because of the increased energy efficiency and flexibility they offer. They are also easier to maintain and react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They also have more versatility, as they can be used to heat or cooling your home depending on the season. This means that you can use them to create a comfortable and sustainable environment all year round.
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 the best for your company. The size of your facility, the number of rooms and their location are other important factors to take into account. The type of climate in your area is also a factor to consider. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are ideally suited to different climates.
Single split systems are most commonly used for smaller commercial buildings and offices. They are ductless HVAC units that have separate air conditioning units and heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler connected to a condenser unit 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 easy to maintain and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases working, it won’t affect the others.
Multi-split systems are a step up from single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units with an outdoor unit using advanced inverter technologies. The indoor units can be wall-mounted, floor-standing or concealed within the ceiling to create a more discreet appearance. These systems are great for small-sized businesses since they can control temperature throughout a space with specific controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems due to sensors built into the system are able to detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This lets the system operate at a much higher energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system, while ensuring optimal comfort for occupants.
Another option for larger companies is a VRF or VRV system, which offers heating and cooling through an assortment of indoor air handlers linked to one or more outdoor units using refrigerant tubes. These systems can be suitable for mid-sized companies, and are particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces because they can cool spaces without creating hot spots or burning up energy. They are also ideal for retail and restaurant establishments since they can be installed in the ceiling or walls or even in areas with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems provide a unique combination of advantages. While the majority of heating and cooling system fall into one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers a unique mix. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones that can be controlled separately. These systems provide 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 and also the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, the outdoor unit is connected with several indoor units which can be mounted on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipes. They can be set at a distance from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
These systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. These systems come with a variety of options for heat recovery that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a fantastic feature for businesses who need to maintain high temperatures however, they also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Contrary to traditional duct systems which often require a dedicated indoor unit for each space they are operated by varying the flow of refrigerant between individual terminal units. When an area is activated using an inverter or zoning control remote, the compressor closest to that room is shut off and its pressure decreases. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
These systems are popular because they are able to be used in a variety of ways. They are commonly used in multifamily homes and offices, shopping malls, and other buildings with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet to run, and they have simple controls that anyone can access.
A VRF/VRV requires skilled installation, just like any advanced technology. This will ensure its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician understands the system inside and out, and will also be aware of the installation details that can affect the performance and durability of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance offers additional benefits for business owners, aside from preventing failures and reducing costs. A comfortable and consistent temperature within the office can enhance employee morale and performance particularly when compared to an icy work environment. It can also prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
To prevent issues that could affect the business process commercial HVAC systems require regular inspections and tune ups. A skilled technician can perform various tests and tasks to optimize the system to ensure optimal performance and to uncover problems that could cause costly and time-consuming repairs. By selecting a firm that has an extensive maintenance checklist, you will be able to make sure that any potential problems are identified early and addressed before they get worse.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled the technician will check electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look 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 in order to prevent dirt from accumulating in the system. This could cause blockages and decrease efficiency.
Make sure to regularly check and replace air filters. A clogged air filter can limit air flow, cause overwork to the system and cause equipment failure. Technicians will also examine and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, plenum, fan and flue or vent pipe to minimize the build-up.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to make sure it is sloped properly to prevent water or condensation from accumulating. They will also lubricate the moving parts to let them run smoothly and efficiently.
A schedule of routine maintenance for a commercial HVAC unit can also assist in ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of a lease contract. Before leasing retail space landlords and property managers usually require proof of regular maintenance. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance will prove that the tenant is committed to upkeep and will take care of the property’s investment.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your system operates correctly, whether you own one unit, multiple units or VRV/VRF. During routine maintenance, a trusted and experienced technician will identify and fix minor problems before they become larger and more costly.