How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to be more structured than residential HVAC jobs. They require a better understanding of the equipment and are required to work during specific hours of operation.
Comfortable indoor environments lead to more productive employees. Poorly managed or outdated HVAC systems can cause distractions through the creation of uncomfortable temperatures and a stale atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are a range of commercial HVAC systems available for your building. These include single split systems and multi-splits, VAV systems and VRF systems as well as district cooling systems. It is essential to consider the size of your space, energy efficiency requirements, climate, and the sustainability goals of your company when determining what system is right for your business. A professional service like Jack Lehr can help you select the right system for your business.
A single-split is a great option for smaller and individual rooms. It is made up of an air conditioner and evaporator coil that work together to remove the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated around the property through ductwork. They are generally more affordable to install than central HVAC systems.
The biggest drawback to this kind of system is that it’s restricted to a single room If you want to cool and heat multiple areas or buildings, you’ll have to select an alternative. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger buildings as they permit you to connect nine indoor air handlers with just one outdoor unit.
These systems use heat pumps to transfer heat from warm to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. These systems are also perfect for large retail spaces or offices with multiple tenants since they offer individual temperature control in every area of the building.
While it’s possible to have single-split systems in your building but you may consider a multi-split system is more cost-effective in the long run because of the increased energy efficiency and flexibility they offer. They’re also simpler to maintain and can respond quicker than single-split systems in response to changing temperatures. They’re also more versatile because they can be used to cool or heat your property, depending on the season. This means that you can use them to create a comfortable, sustainable living space all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of varieties, and the decision of which system is right for your business depends on the layout and style of your building. The size of your facility as well as the number of rooms and their location are also important factors to take into account. The climate of the area you are in is another factor to consider. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to various climates.
Single split systems are most common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC units with furnaces and air conditioning units that operate separately. Each space has an indoor air handler, which is connected to a condenser unit with refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems can be put in place at a low cost and are great for offices and smaller spaces. They are also easy to maintain, and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases working, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split model builds on the single-split model by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. Indoor units can be erected on the wall, set on the floor or hidden in the ceiling to create a an elegant appearance. These systems are ideal for medium-sized business because they can regulate the temperature of the space with individual controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors built into the system can detect minor environmental changes and make minimal adjustments. This lets the system perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system, while ensuring the best comfort for those who use it.
A VRV or VRF is another option for larger companies. The system offers cooling and heating via an indoor air handler system that are connected to one or more outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems can be a good fit for midsize businesses, and they’re especially efficient for large warehouses because they are able to cool the space without creating hot spots or burning up energy. They’re also suitable for retail establishments and restaurants because they can be put on the ceiling or in the walls or even in a space with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While most HVAC and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV systems provide an unique set of advantages. These cutting-edge HVAC systems make use of inverter compressors to create individual climate zones that can be independently controlled. These systems provide precise temperature control, ensuring that each zone is able to meet the specific requirements of the people who live there. This allows for a variety of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to a number of indoor units that can be hung on ceilings or walls and grouped together. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can be placed at a distance from the outdoor unit in order to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
The systems utilize a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. These systems have multiple options for heat recovery that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a great feature for companies that have to maintain high temperatures, but also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having an indoor unit that is dedicated to each space, they operate by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When an area is activated using a zoning controller or inverter remote the compressor closest to that space is shut off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the room to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
They are popular because they are able to be used in a variety of ways. They are often employed in multifamily homes and offices, shopping malls, and other buildings with elaborate floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have controls that anyone can use.
A VRF/VRV requires expert installation, just like any advanced technology. This will maximize the reliability and effectiveness of the system. A certified technician will be familiar with the system’s back and forward directions and the installation nuances that can make or break the system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to preventing breakdowns and reducing energy costs and energy costs, commercial HVAC maintenance can also bring additional benefits for business owners. A comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can improve employee morale and performance in particular when compared with the cold and chilly workplace. It can also prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to avoid issues that could impact the business. Technicians will conduct various tests and tasks in order to improve the performance of the system and discover hidden issues that could result in costly and lengthy repairs. You can ensure that any issues are detected early and rectified before they worsen by choosing a service that offers a comprehensive checklist.
During a regular maintenance visit technicians will check the electrical connections to the unit, belts, and motor. They will also check for indications of wear and tear, and make sure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. In addition they will clean the condenser and evaporator coils to stop dust and dirt from accumulating in the system, which can cause blockages and reduced efficiency.
Make sure to regularly check and replace air filters. A blocked air filter can limit air flow, cause overwork to the system and cause equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork the fan, plenum or vent pipe to reduce build-up.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped correctly to prevent water or condensation from building up. They will also grease the moving parts to let them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A regular maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the lease agreement. When leasing retail space, landlords and property managers often require documentation of regular maintenance. The documentation of regular HVAC maintenance will prove that the tenant is dedicated to maintaining the property and will take care of the property’s investment.
No matter if you have one split system, multiple units, or a VRV/VRF system, routine maintenance is vital to ensure it’s running properly. During regular visits, a knowledgeable and reliable technician will be able to spot and fix small problems before they turn into bigger and more expensive ones.