How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to have a more planned schedule than residential ones. They require a deeper understanding of the equipment and typically work within specified business hours.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Old or unmanaged HVAC systems can create distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a humid atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC systems that can be found for your building. These include single split systems and multi-splits, VAV systems and VRF systems and district cooling systems. When choosing which HVAC system is the best one for your business it is important to consider the size of your building, energy efficiency requirements as well as climate and sustainability goals. Working with a professional service provider like Jack Lehr, can help you choose the best system to meet your needs.
A single-split system is a great option for smaller spaces and individual rooms. It is made up of an air conditioner and evaporator coil that work together to remove the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated throughout the property via ductwork. These systems are typically cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
The main drawback of this type of system is that it’s limited to a single room, so if you need to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to select an alternative. A multi-split system is a great solution for larger homes because it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers to just one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that move waste heat from warm zones to cooler areas in order to conserve energy. They are also suitable for large offices and multi-tenant retail areas since they offer individualized temperature control in every area of the building.
You can install a single-split unit in your home. However, you may find that multi-split systems will be more affordable in the long term due to their increased energy efficiency and flexibility. They’re also simpler to maintain and are able to respond quicker than single-split systems in response to changing temperatures. They’re also more versatile because they can be used to cool or heat your property, depending on the season. This means that you can create a cozy, sustainable environment all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in many forms, and deciding which system is right for your business is contingent on the layout and style of your building. The size of your facility and the number of rooms, and their location are other important factors to take into account. Another factor to consider is the kind of climate that you can expect in the area you are located in. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems adapt well to various climates.
Single split systems are most common for smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units and heaters. Each space has an indoor air handler connected to a condenser unit equipped with refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems are affordable to set up and are great for smaller offices and spaces. They are also easy to maintain and if any reason, one unit stops working, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split system builds on the single-split design by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit, using the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be put on the wall, set on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling for an elegant appearance. These systems are great for medium-sized businesses because they allow for the control of temperatures across the entire space using individual controls.
A multi-split system consumes less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors built into the system detect minor environmental fluctuations and make minor adjustments. This lets it operate at a greater energy efficiency than a conventional system, yet still providing the best comfort for the occupants.
A VRF or VRV is a different option for larger companies. This system provides cooling and heating through an indoor air handler system which are connected to one or more outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great choice for mid-sized businesses and are particularly effective in large warehouses since they cool the space without creating hotspots and burning up energy. They are also ideal for retail establishments and restaurants since they can be put in the ceiling or walls, or even in areas with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems provide unique advantages. While most HVAC systems are in one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers an unique blend. These HVAC systems are cutting-edge and make use of inverter compressors create climate zones which can be independently controlled. These systems provide precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet the requirements of its occupants. This permits a wide range of temperature settings and maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is linked with several indoor units which can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems are connected to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipes. They can also be situated within a reasonable distance of the outdoor unit, which allows for a flexible design and installation.
The systems utilize the highest efficiency heat pumps cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. They also come with multiple heat recovery modes, which allow them to repurpose heat that would otherwise be wasted. This is an excellent feature for companies that have to maintain high temperatures but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems work differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring a dedicated indoor unit per space, they operate by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When a room is activated via the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor that is closest to the space is shut down and the pressure drops. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the space to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
These systems are popular because they are flexible. They are typically used in multifamily homes shops, offices, and other large structures with complicated floor plans. They are incredibly quiet to operate and have simple controls that anyone can use.
As with all modern technologies, a VRF/VRV device requires expert installation in order to maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician knows the system from top to bottom, and will also be aware of the installation details that can affect the performance and longevity of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to preventing breakdowns and reducing energy consumption and energy costs, commercial HVAC maintenance also has other benefits to business owners. For example, keeping a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office improves employee productivity and morale, particularly when compared to a cold workplace. It can also prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to prevent issues that could impact the business. A skilled technician will carry out many tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and uncover hidden problems that could lead to expensive and time-consuming repairs. You can make sure that any potential issues are detected early and rectified before they get worse by selecting a service that offers an extensive checklist.
During a regular maintenance visit the technician will examine the unit’s electrical connections, belts, and motor. They will also check for signs of wear or damage. They will also check that thermostats are calibrated properly. In addition, they will clean evaporator and condenser coils to prevent dirt and dust from building up in the system, which causes obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Air filters should be checked and replaced on a regular basis. A blocked filter hinders air flow and can overload the system, resulting in decreased energy efficiency and possible equipment failure. Technicians will also examine and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the fan, plenum or vent pipe to reduce accumulation.
A technician will also inspect the drain pan to make sure it is sloped in a way that will stop condensation or water from accumulating. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they can run smoothly.
A regular maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system can also help meet the terms of a lease agreement. Property management companies and landlords typically require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property and is committed to its maintenance.
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system functions properly, whether you have one unit, several units or VRV/VRF. During regular visits, a skilled and reliable technician will identify and fix minor issues before they turn into bigger and more costly ones.