Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems help keep your company cool throughout the day. This helps to create an effective and healthy workplace.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, make sure they are licensed and experienced in working on these types of systems. This will guarantee that they will determine the right tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems that are available however a packaged AC system is the most common. These types of air conditioning units incorporate cooling and heating into one unit which makes them an ideal alternative for commercial spaces that require to reduce space. Also known as roof top units, these types of systems are usually found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building with sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or heating, air enters the ductwork, through which it is able to pass through evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils absorbs heat from the air, and the blower motor inside the air conditioner then releases the conditioned air back into the building. The coolant used is circulated back through the evaporator coils and compressor so it can be reused.
Since the parts of a packaged unit are all stored outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system is typically more maintenance-friendly because there aren’t any ducts to allow insects or animals to build nests in, and the components are less likely to suffer from weather or rust damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to set up because they are one unit. They are typically more energy efficient since they don’t require heating and cool multiple spaces like split systems.
Another benefit of this system is that it’s manufactured in a factory setting, so the components are not subjected to extreme temperatures. This allows for greater performance from the unit as well as lower repair costs.
There are different types of package ACs, such as all-electric or gas/electric models. All-electric models are an excellent option for climates that don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models offer a solution for colder regions. Based on the model, there are combinations that can be used for cooling and heating the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also known as mini-split systems provide a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor pulls cool air from the room through the outdoor unit and then pushes it back through interior air ducting. The system can also be used for heating by using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is often the best solution for older homes or spaces without ductwork. They’re also commonly employed to cool and heat garages, sunrooms, workshops and other spaces that aren’t suited to a more traditional HVAC solution. The system is easily installed by our skilled technicians. All they need to complete the installation is access to the wall where your indoor unit is placed, and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system allows for zoned cooling comfort. You can maintain the temperature of your home while guests can adjust the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system also has a higher energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present, and some brands even offer incentives to encourage customers to purchase their new systems.
Another option is to utilize a multi-zone ductless unit that has one outdoor compressor connected to a variety of indoor units. Each unit is situated in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each comes with its own remote. This setup lets you regulate the temperature of each zone of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces that have multiple zones with different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit comes with air filters that remove pollutants and allergens, resulting in a healthier space for your employees and clients. This is especially useful in restaurants, where the air quality is a major aspect in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide a cost-effective alternative for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for the various zones within the building. This lets the occupants modify their the level of comfort and productivity. They also offer a green solution since they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit is equipped with an compressor that circulates refrigerant via pipes to indoor units in different zones or room. The compressor adjusts the speed to be in tune with the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This method eliminates unnecessary cycling that consumes energy. The evaporator coils in the indoor units could be used to provide heating in conjunction with the system adjusting its operation accordingly.
Zoning capability makes VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals, schools, and other commercial buildings that have a diverse range of requirements. The ability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. The low noise level makes the system ideal for environments that are concerned about distractions.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which can be evident by the lower costs for utilities. In addition, the ability of the system to heat and cool several zones independently contributes to significant energy savings when compared to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems can also be used to cut down on energy consumption for heating and cooling in existing ductwork, which is often not in good shape or does not have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems because it is able to swiftly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a preferred option for office buildings and restaurants, hotels, and other commercial buildings which frequently change their uses and occupancy patterns. It’s ideal for large structures that are going through renovations or construction because it is easy to retrofit existing ductwork to meet specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways a VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and help determine if this is the best heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It operates by cooling water and spreading it across your area, reducing ambient temperature, and creating a pleasant environment. This is a great solution for industrial or large-scale structures that require to cool the air and more.
There are two types of chillers: water cooled and air cooled. Both utilize absorption or compressing vapor to cool refrigerant liquid, which is then cycled through different temperatures. The chillers that are air-cooled use fans to blow air over the coils of the evaporator or condenser to eliminate heat. They are big in footprint and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in a basement. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box that is connected to an external cooling system like a tower. These chillers are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers, allowing them to heat your home in winter. This is a great way to conserve energy in buildings that require cooling and heating or spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. It is more efficient to draw heat from a heating system than to take it from the outside air.
Maintaining your chiller, just like a packaged unit will increase its efficiency and lower your energy costs. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, as well as making sure that the compressor is maintained and checked components are among the main maintenance tasks. If you have chillers that are water-cooled or water-cooled, the water treatment system inside your facility should be in good condition to avoid scaling and corrosion.
The kind of chiller you select will be based on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit may be the best option for small and homes, while a VRF or industrial chiller is a more suitable solution for larger structures with special needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you determine the best solution for your building.
