Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your company cool throughout the day. This helps promote a healthy, productive work environment.
If you are looking for an expert to install commercial AC ensure they have the proper knowledge and experience as well as a license. This will guarantee that they will find the correct tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems available however, one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units integrate cooling and heating into one system which makes them an ideal alternative for commercial spaces that need to reduce space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, can be seen in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged system, all of the components are contained within an outdoor cabinet that is connected to the building using sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process, air flows through the ductwork, through which it goes through evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat from the air, and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air through the building. The coolant that is used up is circulated back through the evaporator coils and compressor so that it can be reused.
The components of a packaged system are all situated outside. This makes them smaller than a split system and they don’t need an indoor furnace. This type of system can be more maintenance-friendly because there aren’t vents in which insects or animals could nest. The components are also less likely to suffer rust or weather damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to set up because they’re one unit. They are typically more efficient in energy use, as they don’t require heating and cool multiple spaces like split systems.
This system also has the advantage of being constructed in factories in which components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This means that you get greater performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are various kinds of package ACs, such as all-electric or gas/electric models. Gas/electric units are an option for areas that are colder. All-electric models are ideal in warmer regions where heating isn’t required. There are even combination units that can be used to both heat and cool the same building, depending on the model you choose.
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 made up of an indoor wall-mounted unit with an outdoor compressor as well as refrigerant tubes that join the two components. The compressor pulls cool room air through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the inside air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home making use of the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the ideal solution for older homes or spaces that don’t have ductwork. They’re also commonly employed to cool and heat garages, sunrooms, workshops and other spaces which wouldn’t be a good fit for traditional HVAC solutions. The system is easily installed by our expert technicians. All they need to do is access to the wall where your indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable spot to install the outdoor unit.
A ductless system provides zoned cooling comfort. It allows you to maintain a comfortable temperature in your space, while guests can adjust the temperature to suit their needs. This kind of system is also more energy efficient, since there is no duct-related loss of air. Certain brands offer rebates for customers who choose to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless system is an alternative option. It is made up of an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit resides in the space you want to cool or heat, and is controlled by 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 demands for cooling.
Each indoor unit is equipped with air filters to remove pollutants and allergens, creating an environment that is healthier for your employees and customers. This is particularly useful in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is a crucial aspect of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for commercial spaces of all kinds. They provide precise temperature control for various areas of the building. This lets the occupants modify their comfort and productivity. They also offer energy savings by efficiently dispersing heat, making them a green solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit contains an compressor that circulates refrigerant by pipes to indoor units in various rooms or zones. The compressor modulates the speed so that it is in line with the cooling and heating needs of each zone. This stops unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The evaporator coils inside the indoor units can be used to provide heating, again with the system adjusting its operation accordingly.
Zoning capability makes VRF systems ideal for hospitals, offices schools, and other commercial buildings with a diverse array of needs. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation creates a more peaceful environment and improved security, making it suitable for areas where distractions can be a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology, and it can be seen in the reduced utility bills that come when you implement the system. Additionally, the system’s ability to heat and cool several zones independently contributes to significant energy savings when compared to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems can also be used to cut down on energy consumption for cooling and heating in existing ductwork, which is usually not in good working order or doesn’t have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The ability of the system to swiftly adapt to changing climate conditions allows it to function more efficiently than other types of cooling and heating. This flexibility makes it popular for commercial buildings, such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that alter their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is ideal for large buildings that are undergoing renovations or construction, as it’s easy to retrofit into existing ductwork and meet specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways that a VRF commercial system can improve your space. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and help you determine if this is the right heating and cooling solution for your company.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular kind of HVAC system that maximizes the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and spreads it across the space to create a pleasant atmosphere. This is an excellent option for large buildings or industrial structures that require to cool the air and more.
There are two main chillers, water cooled and air cooled. Both use absorption or vapor compression to cool refrigerant liquid and then cycle through various temperatures. Air cooled chillers have fans that push air over the evaporator and condenser 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 that connects to an external cooling system, such as cooling towers. They are smaller and have smaller footprints than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers that allow them to heat your home during the winter. This is a great method to save energy for buildings that need both cooling and heating, or for areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. It’s more efficient to obtain the heat from a heating unit than to take it from the outside air.
Maintaining your chiller like a packaged unit, can increase its efficiency and lower the cost of your utility bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, as well as inspecting and servicing the compressor, are some of the main maintenance tasks. If you have water-cooled chillers and your facility has a water treatment system should be in good condition to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you pick depends on the needs of your building and budget. A packaged unit is the ideal choice for small businesses or residential spaces. However VRF chillers or an industrial chiller could be a better option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you determine the best solution for your building.
