Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool throughout the day. This creates an effective and healthy workplace.
If you are looking for a contractor to install commercial AC make sure they have the appropriate knowledge and experience as well as a license. This will guarantee that they will determine the right tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems to pick from however, one of the most commonly used for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These types of air conditioning units combine the heating and cooling process in one unit making them a fantastic alternative for commercial spaces that want to save space. Also known as roof top units, these kinds of systems are often seen in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a typical packaged system, all of the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet which is connected to the building via sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process, the air enters through the ductwork and flows over evaporator coils. The coolant inside of the evaporator coils absorbs heat in the air, and the blower motor inside the air conditioner moves the 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 stored outdoors, they can be smaller than a conventional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is generally simpler to maintain since there are no ducts for insects or animals to build nests in, and the parts are less prone to suffering from weather-related rust or damage.
Because they are a single unit they can be less costly to install than split systems. They can also be more energy efficient, since they do not have the same requirements as traditional split systems that requires provide cooling and heating to multiple rooms.
The system also has the advantage of being manufactured in an industrial facility in which the components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This leads to better unit performance and lower repair costs.
There are many kinds of package AC units which include gas/electric and all-electric models. All-electric models are a good option for areas with warmer temperatures that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric models are a viable option for colder areas. Based on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both cooling and heating the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also known as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing which connects the two components. The compressor pulls cool air from the room through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home by using the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are often an ideal solution for older homes and rooms without ductwork. They’re also commonly used to cool and heat garages, sunrooms, workshops and other spaces that wouldn’t benefit from traditional HVAC solutions. The system is easily installed by our professional technicians. All they need to do is access to the wall on which the indoor unit will be placed, and a suitable place to mount the outdoor unit.
A ductless system allows for zoned cooling comfort. This means that you’ll be able to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred setting. This kind of system also provides greater energy efficiency because no duct-related loss of air is present, and some brands offer incentives to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless system is an alternative option. It is comprised of an outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you’d like to cool or heat, and it is controlled by its own remote. This setup gives you the option of setting the temperature for each zone in your building and is a popular choice for commercial buildings with numerous areas that require different cooling requirements.
The indoor units all have air filters that remove 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 the air quality is an important element 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 and zoning capabilities for different areas of the building, enabling users to tailor their preferences for comfort and increase productivity. They also offer a green solution as they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit contains a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in various zones or rooms. The compressor modulates the speed to match precisely with the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This avoids unnecessary cycles that consume energy. The evaporator coils of the indoor units can also be used to provide heat in conjunction with the system adapting its operation accordingly.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings with various needs. This includes hospitals, offices, schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces energy consumption overall and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation creates a more peaceful atmosphere and better privacy, making it suited for environments where distractions are a concern.
The VRF system is renowned for its energy efficiency, which is seen by the lower cost of utility bills. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones independently can result in significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems also have the ability to reduce energy consumption in existing ductwork that is in good condition or has the capacity to accommodate modern equipment. The system’s ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions in the climate makes it operate more efficiently than other types of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes the system a popular option for commercial buildings like restaurants, hotels and office spaces that alter their occupancy patterns and usage frequently. The system is a good option for large structures that are that are undergoing renovations or construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork and it complies with specific building requirements. If you’re interested in learning more about the ways that commercial VRF system could benefit your space, please contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’d love to discuss this system with you, and assist you in deciding if it is the right heating/cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It chills water and distributes it throughout the room to create a pleasant atmosphere. This is an excellent option for large buildings or industrial facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two primary chillers, water cooled and air cooled. Both use absorption or compression of vapor to cool a refrigerant that is then cycled through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that move air over the condenser and evaporator coils to take out heat. They are large in size and are typically located in an area for mechanical cooling on the roof or in the basement. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with a water box which is connected to an external cooling system, such as a tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a smaller footprint than air cooled units.
Chillers can also be equipped with boilers, allowing them to heat your space during winter. This is a great way to conserve energy in buildings that require cooling and heating or spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. For instance, it’s much more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to extract it from cold air outside.
Like a packaged unit maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency in operation and lower your utility costs. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, as well as checking and servicing the compressed chiller are a few of the most important maintenance tasks. If you have a chiller that is water-cooled, the water treatment system in your facility should be in good shape to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller that you choose will depend on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged chiller is the best option for small businesses or residences. However a VRF chiller or industrial chiller may be a better solution for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you select the ideal solution for your project.
