Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This creates an effective and healthy workplace.
If you’re looking for a contractor to install commercial AC, ensure that they have the appropriate experience and license. This will ensure that they can find the right amount of tonnage that is appropriate for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems available, but one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These types of air conditioning units integrate cooling and heating into one unit which makes them an ideal option for commercial spaces that need to reduce space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are commonly found in office buildings and malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all of the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating, air enters the ductwork, through which it is able to pass through the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat of the air and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air through the building. The coolant used is recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator coils to ensure it is reused.
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 typically simpler to maintain since there are no ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the parts are less likely to suffer from weather or rust damage.
Because they are a single unit they can be less costly to install than split systems. They are typically more efficient in energy use, as they don’t need to heat and cool multiple spaces as split systems do.
Another advantage of this system is that it’s constructed in a factory environment and the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This ensures better performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units, including all-electric and gas/electric models. Gas/electric units are an option for areas that are warmer. All-electric models work well in warmer climates where heating is not needed. There are also combinations units that can be used to both heat and cool the same structure, based on the model you choose.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also known as ductless AC units, provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the use of air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes that join the two components. The compressor pulls cool air from the outdoor unit before pushing it through the inside air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioning is typically the ideal solution for older homes or areas without ductwork. These systems can also be utilized to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. The system can be easily installed by our professional technicians. All they need to set up the system is access to the wall on which your indoor unit will be mounted and a suitable location to put the outside unit.
A ductless system is also able to provide zoned cooling comfort. You can keep the temperature of your space, while allowing guests to adjust the temperature as they wish. This kind of system is also more energy efficient, as there is no duct-related loss of air. Some brands offer rebates for customers who use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It is made up of an outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you wish to cool or heat, and is controlled by its own remote. This setup lets you regulate the temperature of each zone of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces with many different zones with varying cooling requirements.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that take out pollutants and other pollutants from the air, making your place an environment that is healthier for both customers and employees. This is especially useful in restaurants, where air quality is an important element in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide a cost-effective option for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for various zones within the building. The occupants can modify their comfort and productivity. They also provide a green solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different zones or rooms. The compressor adjusts the speed to match precisely with the cooling and heating requirements of each zone. This method eliminates unnecessary cycling that consumes energy. The indoor units’ evaporator coils can be used to heat the room. The system will adjust its operation according to the temperature.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings with various needs. This includes offices, hospitals schools, and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. The quiet operation makes the system ideal for areas where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology, and it is evident in the lower utility bills that are associated when you implement the system. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones at the same time is also a major source of savings on energy compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems also have the ability to reduce the amount of energy used in ductwork that’s not in good shape or has the capacity to accommodate newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems due to its ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for offices as well as restaurants, hotels and other commercial buildings that frequently change their use and occupancy patterns. It’s a great fit for large buildings undergoing renovations and construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it is able to meet specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about the ways the VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We’d love to discuss the system with you and assist you in deciding whether it is the ideal heating or cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular type of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It is a system that cools water before spreading it across your space, reducing the ambient temperature, and creating a comfortable space. This is an excellent option for industrial and large-scale facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two primary chillers: water-cooled and air-cooled. Both utilize vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool liquid refrigerants, which is then circulated through various temperatures. Air cooled chillers have fans that move air over the evaporator and condenser coils to eliminate heat. They are usually located in a basement or mechanical room with a huge footprint. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with a water box that connects to an external cooling system like a cooling tower. These chillers are usually smaller and have a smaller footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers can also be equipped with boilers, which allows them to heat your space during winter. This is a great way to conserve energy in structures that require cooling and heating, or for areas where the demand for energy fluctuates during the seasons. It’s more efficient to get the heat from a heating system rather than to draw it from outside air.
As with a packaged unit, maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency and decrease your utility bills. The most important maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator as well as inspecting and servicing the compressor and oil changes. If you have a water-cooled chiller and your facility has a water treatment system must be in good condition to prevent scaling and corrosion.
The type of chiller that you select will be based on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit may be the best option for small-sized businesses and residential spaces, while industrial chillers or a VRF is more suitable for larger buildings with specific needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you find the best solution for your building.
