Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your company cool throughout the day. This helps to create an efficient and healthy working environment.
When choosing a contractor for commercial AC installation, make sure they are licensed and skilled in working on these types of systems. This will guarantee that they will find the correct tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are many different HVAC systems to pick from however, one of the most popular for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These air conditioning systems combine heating and cooling into one unit which makes them a great option for commercial buildings with limited space. Also called roof top units, these types of systems are typically found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all of the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building via sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or 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 absorbs the heat from the air and the motor that blows the air in the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air through the building. The coolant that is used up is recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator coils so that it can be reused.
Since the parts of a packaged unit are all located outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system and don’t need an indoor furnace. This type of system can be more maintenance-friendly because there aren’t vents where insects or animals could nest. The components are more likely to be spared rust or weather damage.
Because they are a single unit They can also be less expensive to install than split systems. They are also typically more energy efficient, since they don’t have the same requirements as a traditional split system that has to provide cooling and heating to multiple rooms.
This system also benefits of being manufactured in a factory in which components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This results in a higher performance of the unit and lower repair costs.
There are different types of package ACs, including gas/electric or all-electric models. Gas/electric units are an option for areas that are more cold. All-electric models work best in warmer climates where heating is not required. There are even combination units that can be used to both cool and heat the same building, depending on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, often referred to as mini-split systems offer a more pleasant cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall-mounted unit, an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes connecting the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the room through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it back through air ducting inside the. The system can also be used for heating, 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 can also be utilized to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. The system can be easily installed by our expert technicians. All they need to complete the installation is access to the wall on which your indoor unit is placed, and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system is also able to provide zoned cooling comfort. This means that you can keep your space at a comfortable temperature while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred temperature. This type of system also provides greater energy efficiency because no duct-related loss of air is present. Some manufacturers even offer rebates to encourage customers to purchase their new systems.
Another option is to utilize a multi-zone ductless system that includes an outdoor compressor that is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you want to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This configuration lets you manage the temperature in every zone of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces that have numerous zones that have different needs for cooling.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that take out pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your space an environment that is healthier for employees and clients alike. This is especially beneficial in restaurants, where air quality is a key factor in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide a cost-effective alternative for commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control and zoning options for various areas of the building, allowing users to tailor their comfort preferences and improve productivity. They are also a sustainable solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different zones or rooms. The compressor modulates its speed to precisely match the cooling and heating requirements of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The indoor units’ Evaporator coils can be utilized for heating. Again, the system will adjust its operation according to the temperature.
Zoning technology makes VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals as well as schools and commercial buildings with a diverse array of needs. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat individual spaces reduces energy consumption and maintenance. Low noise operation makes this system ideal for environments that are concerned about distractions.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which is evident by the lower costs for utilities. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones independently is also a major source of savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems are also able to cut down on the amount of energy used in ductwork that is in good condition or does not have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling 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 structures that frequently change their use and occupying patterns. It’s also ideal for large buildings that are undergoing renovations or construction because it is easy to retrofit existing ductwork to satisfy specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to know more about how the VRF commercial system can benefit your space. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and assist you to determine if it is the best heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is a specific kind of HVAC system that increases the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and distributes it throughout the room to create a comfortable environment. This is an excellent option for larger buildings or industrial installations that need to cool more than the air.
There are two chillers, water cooled and air cooled. Both utilize absorption refrigeration or vapor compression to cool liquid refrigerants that is then circulated through various temperatures. Air cooled chillers have fans that move air over the condenser and evaporator coils to remove excess heat. They have a large footprint and are usually located in a mechanical room on the roof or in the basement. Water cooled chillers have a water box that connects to an external cooling method, such as a cooling tower. They are typically smaller and have a smaller footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers that allow them to heat your house in winter. This is a smart way to save energy in a structure that requires both cooling and heating, or for spaces with seasonal fluctuations in demand. It is more efficient to draw heat from a heating unit than to take it from the outside air.
Like a packaged unit maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency and decrease your energy costs. The main maintenance tasks include cleaning the evaporator and condenser and making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked and oil changes. If you are using water-cooled chillers or water treatment system, your facility’s water treatment system must be in good order to prevent scaling and corrosion.
The type of chiller you choose will depend on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged unit is the best choice for small businesses or residences. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller may be a better solution for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you find the best solution for your building.