Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool all day long. This helps to create a healthy and productive work environment.
When selecting a contractor for commercial AC installation, make sure they are licensed and experienced in working with these kinds of systems. This will help ensure they can find the right tonnage for your space.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems available however a packaged AC system is the most popular. These kinds of air conditioning units incorporate the cooling and heating process into one system making them a fantastic option for commercial spaces that want to save space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are commonly found in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet that connects to the building with sheet metal ductwork. In the course of cooling or heating process, the air is pushed through the ductwork, through which it goes through the evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils sucks up the heat that is in the air and the blower motor inside the air conditioner then pushes that conditioned air into the building. The coolant used can be recirculated back through the compressor and evaporator to be reused.
The components of a packaged system are placed outside. This makes them smaller than a split system, and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is typically easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts for animals or insects to make nests in, and the parts are less likely to suffer from rust or other weather damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install since they’re one unit. They are typically more energy efficient since they don’t need to heat and cool multiple spaces like split systems do.
Another benefit of this system is that it is built in a factory setting which means that the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This allows for better performance and lower repair costs.
There are different types of package ACs available, including gas/electric models or all-electric models. All-electric models are a great option for areas with warmer temperatures that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric units provide an option for colder climates. Depending on the model, there are even combinations that can be used for cooling and heating the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also referred to as mini-split system, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes that join the two components. The compressor draws cool air from the outdoor unit before pushing it through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home by using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the ideal solution for older homes or spaces that don’t have ductwork. These systems are also utilized to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. Our technicians can easily install the system. The only thing they need to install the system is access to the wall that the indoor unit will be mounted, and a suitable place to put the outside unit.
Using a ductless system also allows for zoned cooling comfort. It allows you to maintain a comfortable temperature in your space while guests are able to alter the temperature according to their preferences. This kind of system also offers greater energy efficiency, since no loss of air through ducts is present, and some manufacturers even offer rebates to encourage customers to purchase 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 location you’d like to cool or warm, and each comes with its own remote. This configuration gives you the option of setting the temperature for every zone within your building which makes it an ideal option for commercial spaces that have multiple areas that have varying cooling needs.
The indoor units all have air filters that eliminate pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your space an environment that is healthier for clients and employees alike. This is especially beneficial in restaurants, where the air quality is an important element in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are a cost-effective solution for commercial spaces of all kinds. They offer precise temperature control for various areas in the building. This allows occupants to customize the comfort and efficiency of their workplace. They also help save energy by efficiently distributing heat, making them a sustainable solution all the year.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in different zones or rooms. The compressor regulates its speed to precisely match the heating and cooling needs of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycling, which wastes energy. The indoor units’ coils for evaporation can be used for heating. Again, the system will adjust its operation according to the temperature.
VRF systems are ideal for commercial buildings that have a variety of 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. Low noise operation makes this system ideal for areas where distractions are a concern.
Efficiency in energy is a major benefit of VRF technology, and it is evident in the reduced utility bills that come when you implement the system. Additionally, the system’s ability to heat and cool multiple zones independently contributes to significant energy savings in comparison to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems also have the ability to reduce 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 heating and cooling systems because it can quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for commercial buildings such as restaurants, hotels and office spaces that alter their usage and occupancy patterns frequently. The system is a good choice for large buildings that are undergoing renovations and construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork and it complies with specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about how the VRF commercial system can benefit your space. We are happy to discuss the system with you and help you decide whether it is the right heating/cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a special type of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It operates by cooling water and spreading it across your space, cooling the ambient air temperature and creating a pleasant environment. This is a great solution for large buildings or industrial structures that require to cool the air and more.
There are two kinds of chillers: air cooled and water cooled. Both utilize absorption or compressing vapor to cool refrigerant liquid that is then cycled through different temperatures. Air-cooled chillers utilize fans to blow air over the coils of the evaporator or condenser to remove excess heat. They are typically located in a basement or mechanical room with a large footprint. Water cooled chillers have a water box which connects to an external cooling system, such as a cooling tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a lower footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be equipped with boilers that allow them to heat your space in winter. This is a great method to conserve energy in structures that require cooling and heating or areas where demand fluctuates throughout the year. It’s more efficient to get warmth from a heating system rather than to take it from the outside air.
Maintaining your chiller, just like a packaged unit, can improve its efficiency and reduce your energy costs. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, as well as making sure that the compressor is maintained and checked chiller are a few of the most important maintenance tasks. If you use a water-cooled chiller and your facility has a water treatment system should be in good working order to prevent scaling and corrosion.
The kind of chiller you choose will depend on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit is the best option for small businesses or homes. However, a VRF chiller or industrial chiller might be a better solution for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you determine the right solution for your project.
