Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your company cool throughout the day. This promotes a healthy, productive workplace.
If you’re looking for a contractor to install commercial AC, ensure that they have the appropriate experience and license. This will ensure that they can determine the right tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are many HVAC systems that are available however a packaged AC system is the most common. These air conditioning systems combine heating and cooling into one unit, making them an excellent option for commercial buildings with limited space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are commonly found in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged system, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet which is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process air flows through the ductwork and flows past evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat of the air, and the blower motor of the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air through the building. The coolant used can be recirculated through the compressor and evaporator to be reused.
The parts of a package system are all situated outside. This allows them to be smaller than a split system and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system can be easier to maintain since there aren’t any vents where insects or animals can settle. The components are also less likely to suffer weather-related damage or rust.
Packaged units are cheaper to set up because they are one unit. They can also be more energy-efficient, as they don’t have the same needs as traditional split systems that must work to provide cooling and heating to multiple rooms.
Another benefit of this system is that it’s manufactured in a factory setting, so the components aren’t subjected to extreme temperatures. This results in a more efficient unit and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are a great option for areas with warmer temperatures that don’t need to be heated, while gas/electric models offer a solution for colder climates. There are also combination units that can be used to cool and heat the same building, depending on the model chosen.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also known as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor, and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor draws cool room air through the outdoor unit and pushes it through the inside air ducting. The system can also be used for heating by using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the ideal solution for older homes or rooms that don’t have ductwork. They can also be utilized to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. The system can be easily installed by our expert technicians. All they require to complete the installation is access to the wall where your indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable place to mount the outdoor unit.
Using a ductless system also allows for zoned cooling comfort. You can keep the temperature of your home while allowing guests to adjust the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system also provides greater energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present, and some manufacturers even offer discounts to encourage customers to purchase their new systems.
Another option is a multi-zone ductless system which features one outdoor compressor connected to a variety of indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you’d like to cool or warm, and each one has its own remote. This setup lets you control the temperature in each area of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces that have many different zones with varying needs for cooling.
Each indoor unit is equipped with air filters that eliminate allergens and pollutants, resulting in a healthier space for your clients and employees. This is particularly beneficial in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is a key aspect of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide a cost-effective option for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for the various areas of the building. This allows occupants to customize comfort and productivity. They also provide a green solution because they efficiently re-distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in various rooms or zones. The compressor regulates its speed to accurately match the heating and cooling requirements of each zone. This method prevents unnecessary cycling, which consumes 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 a variety of needs. This includes hospitals, offices as well as schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously heat and cool the individual rooms reduces energy use and maintenance. The system’s quiet operation contributes to a quieter environment and improved security, making it suited for environments where distractions are a concern.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which is observed in the lower costs for utilities. Additionally, the system’s ability to heat and cool several zones in a single unit can result in significant energy savings compared to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems also have the ability to cut down on energy consumption in existing ductwork that’s not in good shape or has the capacity to accommodate modern equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems due to its ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for commercial buildings, such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that alter their usage and occupancy patterns frequently. The system is a good option for large structures that are undergoing renovations and construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it complies with specific building requirements. If you’re interested to learn more about how commercial VRF system could improve your space, please contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’re happy to discuss this system with you, and assist you in deciding if it is the ideal heating or cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular type of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and distributes it throughout the room to create a comfortable atmosphere. This is an excellent option for industrial or larger installations that need to cool more than just the air.
There are two types of chillers – air cooled and water cooled. Both use vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool a liquid refrigerant which is then circulated through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers utilize fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to eliminate heat. They are large in size and are usually located in a mechanical room on the roof or in basements. Water-cooled chillers have a water box that is connected to an external cooling system, such as a tower. These chillers are usually smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also available with boilers that can be used to heat your space in the winter. This is a great method to reduce energy consumption in a building that needs both cooling and heating or in areas with seasonal fluctuations in demand. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to extract it from cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller, just as a packaged unit, will improve its efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility bills. The most important maintenance tasks include cleaning the evaporator and condenser, making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked and oil changes. If you have a water-cooled chiller, your facility’s water treatment system must be in good order to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller that you choose will depend on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged unit could be the ideal choice for small-sized businesses and residential areas, whereas industrial chillers, such as a VRF, is more suitable for larger structures with special needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your building.
