How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more planned schedule than residential ones. They require a greater understanding of the equipment and work during specified hours of operation.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Inefficient or unmanaged HVAC systems can create distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a humid atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are a range of commercial HVAC systems for your building. They include single split systems as well as multi-splits, VAV systems and VRF systems and district cooling systems. When deciding which system is the best one for your business, it’s important to take into account the size of your building, energy efficiency needs as well as climate and sustainability goals. Engaging a professional service provider, like Jack Lehr, can help you choose the best system for your needs.
Single-split systems are great for smaller or isolated rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioner and an evaporator coil which work together to eliminate the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated around the property via ductwork. These systems are typically cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
The biggest drawback to this type of system is that it’s restricted to one room, so if you need to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll have to select a different option. A multi-split system is an ideal solution for larger buildings because it lets you connect up to nine indoor air handlers to only one outdoor unit.
These systems make use of heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, saving energy. These systems are also ideal for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces because they provide individual temperature control for each area of the building.
Although it is possible to have single-split systems in your building however, you might find that installing multi-split systems is more efficient in the long term due to the higher energy efficiency and flexibility they provide. They are also simpler to maintain, and they can react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They’re also more versatile because they can be utilized to heat or cool your home, based on the season. You can create a comfortable and sustainable living space with them all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different forms. The layout and design of the building will determine which system is best for your business. Additionally, you must consider the size of your building, as well as the number and location of rooms. The climate of your area is also a factor to consider. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are able to adapt to various climates.
Single split systems are the most common for smaller offices and commercial buildings. These are ductless HVAC systems with air conditioning units and furnaces that operate in a separate manner. Each space has an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser unit equipped with refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by a thermostat. Single split systems can be put in place at a low cost and are great for offices and smaller areas. They are also simple to maintain, and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases working, it won’t impact the others.
Multi-split systems are an improvement on single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units with an outdoor unit using the latest inverter technology. The indoor units can be wall-mounted, floor-standing or concealed within the ceiling to create a more discreet appearance. These systems are ideal for medium-sized business because they can control temperature of a room with individual controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors built into the system detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This lets it operate at a greater energy efficiency level than a traditional system, while still delivering the best comfort for the occupants.
Another option for larger enterprises is a VRF or VRV system that provides cooling and heating via an array of indoor air handlers connected to outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are ideal for mid-sized companies, and are especially efficient for large warehouses because they can cool spaces without creating hot spots or using up energy. These systems are also ideal for restaurants and retail stores because they can be positioned on the ceiling, walls or in an area with no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems come with a unique combination of benefits. While most heating and cooling system are in one of two categories – ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV is a unique mix. These HVAC systems are at the forefront of technology and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones that can be controlled separately. These systems provide precise temperature control, ensuring that each zone meets the specific requirements of the people who live there. This allows for a broad range of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, an outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit via refrigerant pipe. They can be placed some distance away from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
They utilize a high-efficiency heat pump cycle which incorporates an electric resistance heater. These systems have multiple heat recovery options that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a fantastic feature for companies that want to maintain high temperatures and also reduce their carbon footprint.
In contrast to traditional duct systems, which usually require a separate indoor unit for each room, these systems operate by varying the flow of refrigerant through the individual terminal units. When a room is activated via a zoning remote or a zone controller, the compressor closest to the space is shut down and its pressure decreases. Then coolant from other compressors is pumped into the space to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are popular for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, as well as other large facilities with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and have simple controls that anyone can access.
As with all modern technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation in order to maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician is familiar with the system from top to bottom and will also be aware of the installation nuances which can determine the performance and longevity of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance offers other benefits to business owners, aside from preventing failures and reducing costs. Maintaining a comfortable and consistent temperature within the office can enhance the morale of employees and their performance, especially compared to an icy work environment. It also helps to prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires regular inspections and tune-ups to prevent issues that could affect the business. Technicians perform a variety of tests and tasks to maximize the efficiency of the system and identify hidden issues that could result in costly and lengthy repairs. You can make sure that any issues are detected early and rectified before they become worse by selecting a company that offers a thorough checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit the technician will examine the electrical connections to the unit, belts, and motor. They will also look for signs of wear or damage, and make sure that thermostats are calibrated properly. In addition, they will clean condenser and evaporator coils in order to stop dust and dirt from accumulating within the system, which can cause obstructions and lower efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters regularly and replace them. A blocked filter hinders air flow and overworks the system, leading to reduced energy efficiency and possibly equipment failure. Technicians will also clean the ductwork, fan, flue, and plenum pipe to minimize the accumulation.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to make sure it is sloped in a way that will stop condensation or water from accumulating. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they can run smoothly.
A routine maintenance plan for a commercial HVAC system can also help meet the lease agreement. When leasing retail space, landlords and property managers usually require documentation of regular maintenance. Providing documentation of regular HVAC maintenance can prove that the tenant is dedicated to maintaining the property and will take care of the investment of the property.
No matter if you have a single split system, multiple units, or a VRV/VRF system, routine maintenance is vital to ensure it’s running properly. When it comes to routine maintenance, a trustworthy and experienced technician will identify and fix minor problems before they become larger and cost more.