Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your company cool throughout the day. This promotes an effective and healthy work environment.
If you’re looking for a contractor to install commercial AC make sure they have the appropriate experience and license. This will help ensure they will be able to find the appropriate quantity for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems available, but one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units combine the cooling and heating process in one unit which makes them an ideal alternative for commercial spaces that want to save space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are typically seen in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. When the cooling or heating process is in progress, the air enters through the ductwork, and then moves over the evaporator coils. The coolant inside of the evaporator coils absorbs heat that is in the air and the blower motor of the air conditioner pushes that conditioned air into the building. The coolant used can be recirculated back through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
The parts of a packaged system are all situated outside. This makes them smaller than a split system and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system can be easier to maintain since there aren’t any ducts where animals or insects can nest. The components are also less likely to suffer corrosion or weather damage.
Since they’re a single unit they can be less expensive to install than split systems. They can also be more energy-efficient, as they do not have the same requirements as a traditional split system that requires efficiently cool and heat multiple rooms.
This system also has the benefit of being constructed in an industrial facility in which components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This results in a better unit performance and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are an excellent option for climates that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric models offer a solution for colder regions. There are even combination units that can be used to cool and heat the same structure, based on the model chosen.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also known as mini-split systems provide a more comfortable 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 that join 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 be used to heat your home by using the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioning is often the best solution for older homes or spaces without ductwork. They’re also frequently employed to cool and heat garages, sunrooms, workshops and other spaces that wouldn’t benefit from a more traditional HVAC solution. Our technicians can install the system. All they need to do is access to the wall on which the indoor unit will be installed, and a suitable spot to install the outdoor unit.
A ductless system provides zoned cooling comfort. You can maintain the temperature of your space, while guests are able to alter the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system is also more energy efficient, because there is no duct-related loss of air. Some brands offer discounts to customers who use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It consists of an outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you’d like to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This configuration lets you control the temperature in each area of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces with multiple zones with different 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 especially beneficial in restaurants, where the air quality is an important aspect in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for various commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for different areas of the building. This lets the occupants modify their the level of 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 in different rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts the speed so that it is in line with the cooling and heating needs of each area. This prevents unnecessary cycling, which is a waste of energy. The indoor units’ Evaporator coils can be utilized to heat the room. The system will adjust its operation in accordance with the temperature.
Zoning technology makes VRF systems ideal for hospitals, offices schools, and other commercial buildings that have a diverse array of needs. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool each space reduces energy usage and maintenance. The quiet operation makes this system ideal for areas that are sensitive to distractions.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which can be evident by the lower costs for utilities. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones independently is also a major source of savings in energy compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems are also able to cut down on the amount of energy used in ductwork that is in good shape or does not have 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 popular for commercial buildings such as hotels, restaurants and office spaces that change their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is also ideal for large buildings going through renovations or construction it’s simple to retrofit existing ductwork and satisfy specific building requirements. If you’re interested to learn more about the ways a commercial VRF system could improve your space, please contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’ll be happy to discuss the system with you and help you decide if this is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It operates by cooling water and distributing it throughout your space, reducing the ambient air temperature and creating a pleasant environment. This is a great solution for industrial and large-scale facilities that have a need to cool more than just the air.
There are two main types of chillers: air cooled and water cooled. Both utilize absorption or compressing vapor to cool a refrigerant liquid that is then cycled through different temperatures. The chillers that are air-cooled use fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to remove excess heat. They are big in footprint and are usually located in an area for mechanical cooling on the roof or in the basement. Water-cooled chillers come with an enclosed water box that connects to an external cooling system like a cooling tower. They are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers, allowing them to heat your space during the winter. This is a great way to save energy for buildings that require heating and cooling or for areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. It is more efficient to draw the heat from a heating unit than to take it from the outside air.
Like a packaged unit maintaining your chiller will improve its operational efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility costs. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with making sure that the compressor is maintained and checked components are among the key maintenance tasks. If you use an air-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 requirements of your building. A packaged chiller is the best option for small businesses and residential areas, whereas industrial chillers, such as a VRF, is a more suitable solution for larger buildings with unique requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you choose the ideal solution for your building.