Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This promotes a healthy, productive working environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, ensure that they are licensed and skilled in working on these types of systems. This will ensure they are able to find the correct tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems to choose from however a packaged AC system is the most popular. These air conditioning systems combine heating and cooling into one unit, making them an excellent choice for commercial spaces with limited space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, can be found in offices and malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are housed in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process, the air is pushed through the ductwork and passes the evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator coils absorbs the heat in the air, and the blower motor inside the air conditioner pushes that conditioned air into the building. The used coolant can then be recirculated through the evaporator and compressor to be reused.
Because the components of a packaged unit are housed outside, they are more compact than a traditional split system and don’t need an indoor furnace. This kind of system is usually easier to maintain because there are no ducts for animals or insects to make nests in, and the parts are less likely to suffer from weather-related rust or damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to install since they are a single unit. They are also typically more energy-efficient, as they don’t have the same needs as the traditional split system which has to provide cooling and heating to multiple rooms.
The system also has the benefit of being constructed in a factory in which components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This results in a more efficient unit and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units which include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are a good choice for warmer climates that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric units offer a solution for colder areas. There are also combinations units that can be used to both cool and heat the same structure, based on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also known as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall mounted unit with an outdoor compressor as well as refrigerant tubes connecting the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the outdoor unit before pushing it through the inside air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home by using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are typically a better solution for older homes or spaces that have no existing ductwork. They’re also commonly used to cool and heat sunrooms, garages, workshops and other spaces which wouldn’t be a good fit for a more traditional HVAC solution. The system can be easily installed by our expert technicians. The only thing they require to set up the system is access to the wall where the indoor unit will be mounted and a suitable spot to mount the outside unit.
A ductless system can provide zoned cooling comfort. It allows you to maintain the temperature of your space while guests are able to alter the temperature according to their preferences. This kind of system is also more energy efficient, since there is no duct-related loss of air. Some brands offer rebates for customers who choose to use their new systems.
Another option is a multi-zone ductless unit that has one outdoor compressor connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you’d like to cool or warm, and each has its own remote. This setup allows you to manage the temperature in every zone of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces that have multiple zones with different demands for cooling.
Each indoor unit has air filters that eliminate allergens and pollutants, resulting in a healthier space for your employees and clients. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where air quality is a key aspect in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for a variety of commercial spaces. They offer precise temperature control for the various areas of the building. This allows occupants to adjust their the comfort and efficiency of their workplace. They also help save energy by efficiently redistributing heat, which makes them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in various rooms or zones. The compressor modulates its speed to precisely match the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This method prevents unnecessary cycling, which is a waste of energy. The indoor units’ Evaporator coils can be utilized to heat the room. In addition, the system will adjust its operation in accordance with the temperature.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings with many needs. This includes hospitals, offices, schools and other commercial structures. The ability to simultaneously heat and cool individual spaces reduces energy consumption overall and maintenance costs. The quiet operation makes this system ideal for environments that are concerned about distractions.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which can be observed in the lower costs for utilities. Additionally, the system’s capability to cool and heat multiple zones separately contributes to substantial energy savings in comparison to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems are also able to reduce energy consumption in existing ductwork that is not in good shape or does not have the capacity to accommodate 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 the system popular for commercial buildings, like restaurants, hotels and office spaces that change their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is also a great fit for large buildings that are undergoing renovations or construction because it is easy to retrofit existing ductwork to meet the specific requirements of the building. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about the ways a VRF commercial system can improve your space. We’d be delighted 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 a specific type of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It operates by cooling water and distributing it throughout your area, reducing ambient temperature, and creating a relaxing environment. This is a great solution for large buildings or industrial facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two kinds of chillers: air cooled and cooled by water. Both use vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool a refrigerant liquid that then cycles through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that blow air over the condenser and evaporator coils to take out heat. They have a large footprint and are usually located in an area for mechanical cooling on the roof or in the basement. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box which is connected to an external cooling system such as a tower. These chillers are smaller and have smaller footprints than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also available with boilers that can be used to heat your room in the winter. This is a great method to conserve energy in buildings that require cooling and heating, or for spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than it is to extract it from cold air outside.
As with a packaged unit Maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency and decrease your energy costs. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, as well as inspecting and servicing the compressor chiller are a few of the key maintenance tasks. If you are using a chiller that is water-cooled or water-cooled, the water treatment system in your facility must be in good working order to avoid scaling and corrosion.
The type of chiller that you select will be based on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit is the best option for small-sized businesses or homes. However a VRF chiller or industrial chiller could be the best option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you determine the right solution for your particular building.
