How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more organized schedule than jobs for residential workers. They require a deeper knowledge of the equipment and typically work within specified working hours.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Old or unmanaged HVAC systems can lead to distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a humid atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC systems available for your building including single split systems, multi-split systems VRF and VAV systems, as well as district cooling systems. It is essential to consider the dimensions of your building and energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability goals when deciding which HVAC system is suitable for your business. Working with a professional provider like Jack Lehr can help you determine the best system for your business.
Single-split systems are ideal for smaller spaces or even individual rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioning unit, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to remove cool and warm air, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the property. They are generally cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
The main drawback of this kind of system is that it’s restricted to just one room, so if you need to cool and heat multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to choose another option. Multi-split systems are an ideal solution for larger homes because it allows you to connect up to nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems utilize heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. They’re also great for large offices and multi-tenant retail spaces because they provide individual temperature control in each area of the building.
While it’s possible to have one-split systems installed in your home however, you might find that installing multi-split systems is more economical in the long run due to the greater efficiency in energy and the flexibility they offer. They’re also simpler to maintain and are able to respond faster than single-split systems to changes in temperatures. They are also more flexible because they can be used to heat or cool your home based on the season. You can create a comfortable and sustainable living space with them all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in many different designs. The layout and design of the structure will determine which one is ideal for your business. The size of your facility, the number of rooms and their location are also important factors to consider. The climate of the area you are in is another factor to consider. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are well-suited to different climates.
Single split systems are used in smaller commercial buildings and offices. They are ductless HVAC systems with air conditioning units and furnaces that operate separately. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser via refrigerant tubes. Both units are controlled by a thermostat. Single split systems can be installed inexpensively and are ideal for smaller offices and spaces. They are also easy to maintain and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases working, it won’t affect the others.
Multi-split systems are a step up from single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units with a single outdoor unit by making use of advanced inverter technology. Indoor units can be erected on the wall, set on the floor or hidden in the ceiling for an appearance that is more discrete. These systems are great for medium-sized business because they can regulate the temperature of the space with specific controls.
A multi-split system consumes less energy than a traditional forced-air system because built-in sensors detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This lets the system operate with a higher energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system and still provide optimal comfort for occupants.
Another option for larger companies is a VRV or VRF system that provides heating and cooling through an array of indoor air handlers linked to one or more outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good option for small-sized businesses, and they’re especially efficient in large warehouses, as they are able to cool the space without generating hotspots or wasting energy. They are also ideal for retail and restaurant establishments, as they can be installed in the ceiling or on walls, or even in a space with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While the majority of heating and cooling systems are classified into two categories, ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV systems have a unique blend of benefits. These advanced HVAC systems use inverter technology compressors to create unique climate zones that are 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 as well as the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, an outdoor unit is linked with several indoor units that can be mounted on the ceiling or walls. These indoor air handling units connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipe. They can be placed a reasonable distance away from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
The systems utilize the highest efficiency heat pumps cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. These systems come with a variety of options for heat recovery that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unutilized. This is an excellent feature for companies that have to maintain high temperatures, however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring a dedicated indoor unit per space, they function by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When a space is activated with a zoning controller or inverter remote, the compressor closest to that room is shut off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the room to compensate. This process is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible they are a popular choice for multifamily homes, office buildings, shopping malls, and other large buildings with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and come with simple controls that anyone can access.
Like all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation in order to maximize its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician knows the system inside and out, and will also be aware of the installation nuances which can make or break the performance and durability of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance can bring additional benefits to business owners, aside from preventing failures and reducing costs. A comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can improve the morale of employees and their performance in particular when compared with an icy work environment. It also helps to prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
To avoid problems that may affect the business process commercial HVAC systems require regular inspections and tune ups. Technicians perform a variety of tests and tasks to optimize the system’s performance and identify hidden issues that could result in costly and time-consuming repairs. You can ensure that any issues are detected early and corrected before they become worse by selecting a service that offers a thorough checklist.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled, the technician will inspect the electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look for signs of wear and damage, and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated correctly. In addition they will clean the condenser and evaporator coils in order to prevent dirt and dust from building up in the system, causing obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters on a regular basis and replace them. A blocked filter hinders air flow and can overload the system, resulting in reduced energy efficiency and possibly equipment failure. Technicians also clean the ductwork, fan, the flue, and plenum pipe to minimize the accumulation.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to make sure it is sloped in a way that will prevent water or condensation from accumulating. They will also make sure that the moving parts are lubricated so that they operate smoothly.
A routine maintenance plan for commercial HVAC system can also help in ensuring the lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies often require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing space to retail tenants. Providing documentation of routine HVAC maintenance can show that the tenant is committed to upkeep and will take care of the property’s investment.
Routine maintenance is vital to ensure that your system is operating efficiently, whether it’s a single unit, multiple units, or a VRV/VRF. During regular visits, an experienced and reliable technician will identify and fix small problems before they become larger and more costly ones.