How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more organized schedule than jobs for residential workers. They require a better understanding of the equipment and work during designated hours of operation.
Comfortable indoor environments lead to more productive employees. Poorly managed or outdated HVAC systems can create distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC options for your building such as single split systems, multi-split systems, VAV or VRF systems, as well as district cooling systems. When deciding which system is the best one for your business, it’s important to consider the size of your building, its energy efficiency needs and climate goals. A professional service like Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your company.
Single-split systems are ideal for smaller spaces or even individual 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. These systems are usually less expensive than central HVAC systems.
This type of system has one disadvantage it is that it is able to only cool or heat only one room. If you want to cool or heat several rooms, you’ll have to select a different option. Multi-split systems are an ideal solution for larger properties because it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems make use of heat pumps to transfer heat from warm to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. They’re also ideal for large offices and multi-tenant retail areas since they offer individualized temperature control in each area of the building.
You can install one-split units in your home. However, you may find that multi-split systems will be more affordable in the long run due to their greater energy efficiency and flexibility. They are also easier to maintain and respond quicker than single-split systems to changing temperatures. They are also more flexible because they can be utilized to heat or cool your property, depending on the season. You can create a relaxing and sustainable space all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in a variety of forms, and deciding which system is right for your business depends on the layout and design of your building. Also, take into consideration the size of your building, as well as the size and location of rooms. The climate of 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 the most popular for smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC units that include air conditioning units and furnaces that operate separately. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler which is connected to a condenser by refrigerant tubes. A thermostat is the sole control for both units. Single split systems are cheap to install and ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They are also easy to maintain and if for any reason, one unit stops functioning, it won’t affect the others.
The multi-split system builds on the single-split model by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit, using the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be mounted on the wall, placed on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling to create a an appearance that is more discrete. These systems are ideal for medium-sized business because they can control the temperature of a room with individualized controls.
A multi-split system consumes less energy than a traditional forced-air system because built-in sensors detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This lets the system perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system while still providing optimal comfort for the occupants.
Another option for larger companies is a VRV or VRF system, which provides cooling and heating through a series of indoor air handlers connected to one or more outdoor units using refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good fit for midsize companies, and are particularly effective for warehouses that are large because they can cool a space without creating hot spots or burning up energy. They’re also suitable for retail and restaurant establishments since they can be installed on the ceiling or in the walls, or even in a space that has no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems are classified into two categories, ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV systems have an unique set of advantages. These HVAC systems are cutting-edge and make use of inverter compressors create climate zones that can be controlled separately. These systems provide precise temperature control, ensuring that each zone is able to meet the exact requirements of its occupants. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings and maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to a number of indoor units that can be placed on walls or ceilings and placed together. These indoor air handling units connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipe. They can also be located a reasonable distance from the outdoor unit, which allows for flexibility in design and installation.
They utilize a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that uses an integral backup electric resistance heater. These systems come with a variety of heat recovery options that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unutilized. This is a great feature for companies that have to keep their temperatures high, however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
Contrary to traditional duct systems which usually require a separate indoor unit for each space, these systems operate by varying the flow of refrigerant through individual terminal units. When a room is activated by the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor nearest the area shuts down and its pressure decreases. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible they are a popular choice for multifamily offices, homes shopping malls, and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and come with controls that anyone can use.
As with all advanced technology, a VRF/VRV requires expert installation to maximize its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician will know the system backwards and forwards as well as all of the installation nuances that can affect your new system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to preventing breakdowns and reducing energy consumption in commercial HVAC maintenance can also bring other benefits to business owners. For instance, maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office can improve employee performance and morale, especially when compared to a cold work environment. In addition, it can stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
To avoid issues that could affect the operation of a business, commercial HVAC systems require regular inspections and tune ups. Technicians will conduct various tests and tasks in order to optimize the system’s performance and uncover hidden problems that could result in costly and time-consuming repairs. You can ensure that any issues are detected early and corrected before they worsen by choosing a company that offers a thorough checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit technicians will check the unit’s electrical connections, belts, and motor. They will also look for signs of wear or damage, and check that thermostats are calibrated correctly. Additionally they will clean the evaporator and condenser coils to prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system, which can cause blockages and reduced efficiency.
Make sure to regularly check and replace air filters on a regular basis and replace them. A blocked filter can impede air flow and overworks the system, resulting in reduced energy efficiency and possibly equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork plenum, fan and flue or vent pipe to reduce build-up.
Then an expert will examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped properly to avoid condensation or water build-up. They will also lubricate all moving parts to help to run smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system can also help meet the lease agreement. Property management companies and landlords typically require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance proves that the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property and is committed to its upkeep.
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system operates efficiently, whether it’s one unit, several units, or a VRV/VRF. During routine maintenance, a trustworthy and skilled technician will spot and fix minor problems before they grow larger and cost more.