How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more structured schedule than residential ones. They require a deeper knowledge of the equipment and typically work within designated business hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor environment leads to more productive employees. Old or unmanaged HVAC systems can cause distractions because of uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC systems available for your building, including single split systems, multi-split, VRF or VAV systems, as well as district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the size of your space as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate, and your company’s sustainability goals when determining what system is best for your business. Working with a professional service provider, like Jack Lehr, can help you select the right system for your needs.
A single-split system is an excellent choice for smaller spaces and rooms that are separate. It comprises an air conditioner, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to extract heat and cool air, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the building. They are generally cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system comes with one disadvantage it can only heat or cool one room. If you wish to cool or heat several rooms, you’ll need to select a different option. Multi-split systems are ideal for larger properties because it lets you connect up to nine indoor air handlers with just one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that move waste heat from warm areas to cooler areas to conserve energy. They’re also great for large office spaces and multi-tenant retail space because they can provide individualized temperature control for each part of the building.
While it’s possible to install single-split systems in your house but you may find that installing a multi-split system is more cost-effective in the long run due to the higher energy efficiency and flexibility they offer. They’re also simpler to maintain and are able to respond faster than single-split systems in response to changing temperatures. They are also more flexible because they can be used to cool or heat your home based on the season. This means that you can create a comfortable, eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different styles. The design and layout of the building will determine which type of system is best for your business. Also, take into consideration the size of your building, as well as the room size and the location. The type of climate in your area is another consideration. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to different climates.
Single split systems are most common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. They are HVAC units with ductless construction that include 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 regulates the operation of both units. Single split systems can be put in place inexpensively and are ideal for offices and smaller areas. They are also easy to maintain and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases functioning, it won’t affect the other units.
Multi-split systems are an improvement on single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit by using advanced inverter technologies. The indoor units can be mounted on walls, floor-standing or concealed within the ceiling for a more discrete appearance. These systems are perfect for medium-sized companies because they can control temperature across the entire space using specific controls.
A multi-split system uses less energy than a traditional forced-air system because sensors built into the system detect minor environmental fluctuations and make minor adjustments. This allows the system to perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system, while ensuring optimal comfort for the occupants.
Another option for larger enterprises is a VRV or VRF system that provides cooling and heating through an assortment of indoor air handlers that are connected to outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems can be suitable for mid-sized companies, and are particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces because they are able to cool the space without creating hot spots or using up energy. They are also ideal for restaurants and retail locations since they can be installed in the ceiling or on walls, or even in areas without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems are classified into two categories, ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV systems provide an exclusive set of benefits. These HVAC systems are at the forefront of technology and use inverter compressors to create climate zones that can be controlled separately. These systems provide precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets the requirements of its occupants. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
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 connect to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipe. They can be installed a reasonable distance away from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
These systems use a high-efficiency heat pumps cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. They have a variety of heat recovery options which allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unutilized. This is an excellent option for businesses that need to keep their temperature high however, they also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Unlike traditional duct systems, which often require a dedicated indoor unit for each room they work by adjusting the flow of refrigerant through each terminal unit. When a room is activated by the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor nearest the area shuts down and its pressure drops. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are an ideal choice for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, as well as other large facilities with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and come with controls that anyone can use.
A VRF/VRV requires skilled installation, as with any other advanced technology. This will increase the reliability and effectiveness of the system. A certified technician will know the system backwards and forwards as well as the nuances of installation that can affect the system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance offers additional benefits to business owners, apart from the prevention of failures and reduction in costs. For example, keeping an even and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts employee performance and morale, particularly when compared to a cold workplace. In addition, it can stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to prevent issues that could impact the operation of your business. A technician will perform various tests and tasks to optimize the system’s performance and identify hidden issues that could lead to costly and lengthy repairs. By choosing a company with a thorough maintenance checklist, you can ensure that any potential problems are identified early and corrected before they get worse.
In a routine maintenance visit, the technician will inspect electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look for signs of wear or damage. They will also make sure that thermostats are calibrated correctly. Additionally they will clean the evaporator and condenser coils to prevent dirt and dust from building up within the system, which causes obstructions and lower efficiency.
Air filters need to be checked and replaced regularly. A blocked filter can impede air flow and overworks the system, resulting in decreased energy efficiency and possible equipment failure. The technicians will also clean the ductwork, fan plenum and flue or vente pipe to minimize accumulation.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped properly to stop condensation or water from building up. They will also lubricate all moving parts to help them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A schedule of routine maintenance for commercial HVAC unit will also help in meeting the terms and conditions of a lease contract. Property management companies and landlords typically require proof of routine maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance will prove that the tenant is committed to upkeep and will take care of the investment of the property.
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system functions properly, whether you have one unit, multiple units or a VRV/VRF. When you perform routine maintenance, a trustworthy and experienced technician will identify and address minor issues before they become more significant and more expensive.