Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This can help create a healthy, productive working environment.
When selecting a contractor for commercial AC installation, make sure they are licensed and experienced in working on these types of systems. This will ensure they can find the right amount of tonnage that is appropriate for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are many HVAC systems that are available, but a packaged AC system is the most common. These kinds of air conditioning units integrate the heating and cooling process into one system which makes them an ideal option for commercial spaces that want to reduce space. Also called roof top units, these kinds of systems are typically found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. In the process of cooling or heating, the air enters through the ductwork, and then moves through evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils sucks up the heat in the air, and the blower motor of the air conditioner pushes that conditioned air into the building. The coolant used is recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator coils to ensure it is reused.
Since the components of a package unit are housed outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system could be more maintenance-friendly because there aren’t ducts where animals or insects can nest. The components are also less prone to rust or weather damage.
Because they are a single unit, packaged units can also be less costly to install than split systems. They are also usually more energy efficient, since they don’t have the same requirements as the traditional split system which requires heat and cool multiple rooms.
Another advantage of this system is that it’s manufactured in a factory setting, so the components aren’t subjected to extreme temperatures. This ensures greater performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units which include gas/electric and all-electric models. Gas/electric units are an alternative for those who live in areas that are warmer. All-electric models are ideal in warmer regions where heating isn’t needed. There are even combination units that can be used to heat and cool the same structure, based on the model you choose.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are also known as mini-split systems offer a more pleasant cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system is comprised of an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room through the outdoor unit and then pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home by making use of the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are typically a better solution for older homes and spaces which don’t have ductwork. They can also be used to heat or cool sunrooms and garages. The system can be easily installed by our expert technicians. All they need to finish the installation is access to the wall where the indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable place to mount the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. This means that you’ll be able to keep your space at a moderate temperature while guests can remain at their preferred setting. This type of system provides greater energy efficiency because no duct-related loss of air is evident. Some brands offer rebates to encourage customers to use their new systems.
Another option is to use a multi-zone ductless unit that features one outdoor compressor connected to several indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This configuration lets you manage the temperature in every zone of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces with numerous zones that have different needs for cooling.
Each indoor unit has air filters that eliminate allergens and pollutants, resulting in an environment that is healthier for your employees and clients. This is particularly useful in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is an important aspect of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy efficient solution for commercial spaces of all kinds. They offer precise temperature control for various zones within the building. This lets the occupants modify their comfort and productivity. They also help save energy by efficiently redistributing heat, making them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit contains a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in different zones or rooms. The compressor adjusts its speed to precisely match the cooling and heating requirements of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycling, which wastes energy. The evaporator coils inside the indoor units can be used to provide heating and cooling, with the system adjusting its operation according to.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings with various needs. This includes hospitals, offices as well as schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces energy usage and maintenance. The system’s low noise operation results in a quieter environment and improved privacy, making it well designed for environments where distractions are a problem.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which can be seen by the lower cost of utility bills. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones in a single system also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can be used to reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling in existing ductwork, which is usually not in good condition or does not have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system’s ability to quickly adapt to changing climate conditions allows it to function more efficiently than other types of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes it a popular option for commercial buildings, such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is a great option for large structures that are which are in the process of renovations and construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork and it meets specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways that the VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and help decide if this is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a special kind of HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and distributes it throughout the space to create a pleasant atmosphere. This is a great option for industrial or larger installations that need to cool more than just the air.
There are two main chillers, water cooled and air cooled. Both use absorption or compressing vapor to cool a refrigerant that is then cycled through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that move air over the evaporator and condenser coils to remove excess heat. They are typically located in a mechanical or basement room with a large footprint. Water cooled chillers have a water box which connects to an external cooling method, such as a cooling tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers, which allows them to heat your home during the winter. This is a great method to reduce energy consumption for structures that require heating and cooling or for areas where the demand for energy fluctuates during the seasons. For instance, it’s much more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to draw it from the cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller as a packaged unit, will improve its efficiency and reduce your utility bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, as well as checking and servicing the compressed, are some of the main maintenance tasks. If you use chillers that are water-cooled, the water treatment system inside your facility must be in good condition to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you pick depends on the needs of your building and budget. A packaged chiller is the best option for small-sized businesses and residential areas, whereas a VRF or industrial chiller is the best option for larger buildings with specific requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you select the ideal solution for your building.
