Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool throughout the day. This promotes an efficient, healthy work environment.
If you’re looking for an expert to install commercial AC, ensure that they have the appropriate knowledge and experience as well as a license. This will guarantee that they will determine the right tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems available among them, but one of the most popular for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems integrate cooling and heating into one unit making them an ideal choice for commercial spaces with small space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are commonly found in office buildings and malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all of the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building via sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process, the air is pushed through the ductwork through which it is able to pass through the evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator coils absorbs heat in the air, and the blower motor in the air conditioner then releases the conditioned air back into the building. The used coolant can then be recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator to be reused.
Because the components of a packaged unit are all stored outside, they are smaller than a conventional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system can be easier to maintain, as there are no vents in which insects or animals can nest. The components are also less likely to suffer weather-related damage or rust.
Since they’re a single unit They can also be less expensive to install than split systems. They are generally more efficient in energy use, as they don’t need to heat and cool multiple rooms like split systems do.
Another advantage of this system is that it is built in a factory setting and the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This means that you get higher performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are many kinds of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. Gas/electric units are an alternative for those who live in areas that are colder. All-electric models work best in warmer climates where heating isn’t needed. There are even combination units that can be used to cool and heat the same structure, based on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also referred to as ductless AC units, offer more comfortable cooling without the need for air ducts. The system is comprised of an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor, and refrigerant tubing which connects 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 for heating by using the same process in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit and into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the best solution for older homes or rooms that don’t have ductwork. They’re also frequently used to heat and cool sunrooms, garages, workshops and other rooms that wouldn’t benefit from traditional HVAC solutions. Our technicians can install the system. All they need to do is access to the wall where the indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can also provide zoned cooling comfort. This means you can keep your space at a comfortable temperature, while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred setting. This type of system is also more energy efficient since there is no duct-related loss of air. Some manufacturers offer rebates to customers who use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless system is an alternative option. It is comprised of an outdoor compressor that is connected to a number of indoor units. Each unit is located in the space you want to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This configuration allows you to have the flexibility to set the temperature for each area in your building and is a popular choice for commercial buildings with multiple areas that require different cooling requirements.
The indoor units all have air filters that remove pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your place a healthier environment for both customers and employees. This is especially beneficial in restaurants, where air quality is an important factor in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems offer an energy-efficient option for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for the various areas of the building. The occupants can modify their comfort and productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently distributing heat, making them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit has an compressor that circulates refrigerant by pipes to indoor units within different rooms or zones. The compressor regulates its speed in order to precisely match the heating and cooling requirements of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycling, which consumes energy. The evaporator coils can be used for heating. In addition, the system will alter its operation based on the temperature.
Zoning capability makes VRF systems ideal for hospitals, offices schools, and other commercial buildings that have a wide array of needs. The capability to simultaneously heat and cool each space reduces energy consumption overall and maintenance costs. Low noise operation makes this system ideal for areas where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology and is evident in the lower utility bills that come with the installation of the system. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones independently also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems can also be used to cut down on energy consumption in existing ductwork that’s not in good shape or has the capacity to handle newer equipment. The ability of the system to swiftly adapt to changing weather conditions enables it to operate more efficiently than other kinds of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes it a preferred option for offices, hotels, restaurants and other commercial structures that frequently change their use and occupying patterns. The system is a great option for large structures that are undergoing renovations and construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork and it is able to meet specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about how a VRF commercial system can improve your space. We’re happy to discuss this system with you and help you decide whether it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that maximizes your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It chills water and distributes it throughout the space to create a comfortable environment. This is a great solution for industrial or large-scale facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two chillers: water-cooled and air-cooled. Both utilize vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool liquid refrigerants that is then circulated through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that push air over the condenser and evaporator coils to take out heat. They are usually situated in a mechanical or basement room with a huge footprint. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with a water box which connects to an external cooling method like a cooling tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a smaller footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers are also available with boilers that can be used to heat your space during winter. This is an efficient way to save energy in a structure that requires both cooling and heating or for spaces with seasonal fluctuations in demand. For instance, it’s much more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to extract it from cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller as a packaged unit, will improve its efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility costs. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with inspecting and servicing the compressor, are some of the key maintenance tasks. If you have a water-cooled chiller and your facility has a water treatment system must be in good condition to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller that you select will be based on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit could be the ideal choice for small and homes, while industrial chillers or a VRF is more suitable for larger buildings with unique requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you choose the ideal solution for your building.