Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This helps promote a healthy, productive work environment.
If you are looking for an installer for commercial AC make sure they have the right experience and a valid 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 choose from however, one of the most common 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 spaces with little space. These systems, also referred to as roof-top units, are typically seen in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged system, all the components are housed in an outdoor cabinet, which is connected to the building using sheet metal ductwork. When the cooling or heating process is in progress the air is pushed through the ductwork and flows over evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator coils sucks up the heat from the air, and the blower motor in the air conditioner then releases the conditioned air back into the building. The used coolant can then be recirculated back through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
Since the parts of a package unit are located outside, they are more compact than a traditional split system, and don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system can be easier to maintain, as there are no vents where insects or animals can settle. The components are more likely to be spared corrosion or weather damage.
Since they are a single unit They can also be less expensive to set up than split systems. They are also typically more energy efficient since they do not have the same requirements as a traditional split system that must work to heat and cool multiple rooms.
The system also has the advantage of being manufactured in a factory in which the components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This results in a better unit performance and lower repair costs.
There are many kinds of package AC units, including all-electric and gas/electric models. Gas/electric units are an alternative for those who live in areas that are colder. All-electric models work best in warmer climates where heating is not needed. 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, provide more comfortable cooling experience without the use of air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes that connect 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 usually an ideal solution for older homes and spaces that have no existing ductwork. They can also be used to heat or cool garages and sunrooms. Our technicians can easily install the system. All they need to install the system is access to the wall that the indoor unit will be mounted, and a suitable place to mount the outside unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. You can maintain an ideal temperature in your space while allowing guests to adjust the temperature to suit their needs. This type of system also has a higher energy efficiency as no duct-related air loss is present. Some manufacturers even offer rebates to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It consists of one outdoor compressor that is connected to a number of indoor units. Each unit is situated in the space you’d like to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This configuration allows you to have the option of setting the temperature for each zone in your building and is an ideal option for commercial spaces that have many different areas that may require different cooling requirements.
The indoor units are equipped with air filters that remove pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your space more healthy for both customers and employees. This is particularly useful in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is an important aspect of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems offer an energy-efficient alternative for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperatures and zoning features for various areas of the building, enabling users to tailor their preferences for comfort and increase productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently dispersing heat, which makes them a sustainable solution all the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit has an compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units within different zones or room. The compressor regulates the speed to match precisely with the cooling and heating needs of each area. This approach avoids unnecessary cycling, which is a waste of energy. The evaporator coils in the indoor units could be used to provide heat in conjunction by adjusting the system’s operation accordingly.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings that have many requirements. This includes offices, hospitals, schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously heat and cool each space reduces overall energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s quiet operation creates a more peaceful atmosphere and better privacy, making it designed for environments where distractions can be a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology, and this is evident in the lower utility bills that are associated with implementing the system. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones at the same time also contributes to significant savings in energy when compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems are also able to cut down on the energy consumption of ductwork that is in good condition or doesn’t have the capacity to handle newer equipment. The ability of the system to swiftly adapt to changing weather conditions enables it to operate more efficiently than other kinds of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes it a popular option for office buildings, hotels, restaurants and other commercial buildings which frequently change their uses and occupancy patterns. It’s a great option for large structures that are undergoing renovations and construction. It is easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it meets specific building requirements. If you’re interested to learn more about the ways a commercial VRF system can improve your space, please contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’re happy to discuss this system with you and assist you in deciding whether it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that increases your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It cools water and spreads it across the space to create a comfortable environment. This is a great solution for large buildings or industrial facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two types of chillers: air cooled and cooled by water. Both utilize absorption refrigeration or vapor compression to cool a liquid refrigerant which is then circulated through various temperatures. Air cooled chillers have fans that push air over the evaporator and condenser coils to remove excess heat. They are large in size and are typically located in an area for mechanical cooling on the roof or in a basement. Water-cooled chillers have an water box that is connected to an external cooling system, like a tower. They are smaller and have smaller footprints than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also able to be fitted with boilers that allow them to heat your home in winter. This is a great method to save energy for buildings that need both heating and cooling or for spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. For instance, it’s more efficient to draw heat from a boiler than to extract it from the cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller, just as a packaged unit, will improve its efficiency and reduce the cost of your utility costs. The main maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator, inspecting and servicing the compressor and oil changes. If you have chillers that are water-cooled and water-treated, the water treatment system within your facility must be in good shape to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The kind of chiller you select will depend on the needs of your establishment and your budget. A packaged unit may be the best option for small-sized businesses and homes, while industrial chillers, such as a VRF, is more suitable for larger structures with special needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you select the ideal solution for your building.