Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This promotes a healthy, productive work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, make sure they have the proper license and experience in working on these types of systems. This will guarantee that they will determine the appropriate tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are many HVAC systems available however a packaged AC system is the most common. These air conditioning systems combine heating and cooling into one unit which makes them a great choice for commercial spaces with little space. Also called roof top units, these types of systems are typically found in office buildings and shopping malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all of the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building via sheet metal ductwork. In the course of cooling or heating process, air flows through the ductwork, through which it is able to pass through evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator absorbs the heat of the air, and the motor that blows the air in the air conditioner pushes this conditioned air through the building. The coolant used is returned to the compressor and evaporator coils so it can be reused.
Since the parts of a packaged unit are housed outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system and don’t need an indoor furnace. This type of system can be more maintenance-friendly, as there are no ducts where animals or insects could nest. The components are also less likely to suffer rust or weather damage.
Since they are a single unit, packaged units can also be less expensive to set up than split systems. They are typically more efficient in energy use, as they don’t need to heat and cool multiple spaces like split systems.
Another advantage of this system is that it is constructed in a factory environment and the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This means that you get better performance from the unit as well as lower repair costs.
There are many kinds of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. Gas/electric models are a good alternative for those who live in areas that are more cold. All-electric models work well in warmer climates where heating isn’t needed. There are also combinations units that can be used to both cool and heat the same building, depending on the model selected.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, which are also referred to as mini-split system offer a more pleasant cooling experience without the requirement for air ducts. The system consists of an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing that connect the two components. The compressor draws cool room air through the outdoor unit and pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can also be used to heat by using the same method in reverse to transfer heat from the outdoor unit into your home.
Ductless air conditioning is usually the ideal solution for older homes or areas that don’t have ductwork. These systems are also utilized to cool or heat sunrooms and garages. The system is easily installed by our professional technicians. The only thing they need to set up the system is access to the wall where your indoor unit will mount and a suitable location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system provides zoned cooling comfort. You can keep an ideal temperature in your home while guests are able to alter the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system has a higher energy efficiency as no duct-related air loss is evident. Some manufacturers even offer rebates to encourage customers to utilize their new systems.
Another option is to utilize a multi-zone ductless system which has one outdoor compressor connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is located in the location you wish to cool or warm, and each one comes with its own remote. This configuration lets you control the temperature in each zone of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces that have multiple zones with different demands for cooling.
Each indoor unit is equipped with air filters to remove pollutants and allergens, resulting in an environment that is healthier for employees and clients. This is particularly useful in restaurants and other eateries where the quality of the air is a key element of the overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are an energy-efficient solution for a variety of commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for different areas of the building. This allows occupants to customize comfort and productivity. They also offer energy savings by efficiently dispersing heat, which makes them a green solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in different zones or rooms. The compressor regulates its speed to precisely match the heating and cooling demands of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycles that waste energy. The evaporator coils inside the indoor units can also be used to provide heat, again with the system adjusting its operation according to.
Zoning technology makes VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals, schools, and other commercial buildings with a diverse set of needs. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat individual spaces reduces energy consumption and maintenance. The system’s low noise operation creates a more peaceful environment and improved privacy, making it well designed for environments where distractions can be a concern.
The VRF system is well-known for its energy efficiency, which can be observed in the lower cost of utility bills. Additionally, the system’s capability to cool and heat multiple zones independently contributes to significant energy savings compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can even be used to decrease energy consumption for cooling and heating in existing ductwork that is typically not in good condition or does not have the capacity to handle the latest equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems because it can quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a preferred option for offices, hotels, restaurants and other commercial structures that are frequently changing their usage and occupancy patterns. The system is also ideal for large structures that are going through renovations or construction, as it’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork and satisfy specific building requirements. Contact the team at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about how the VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We’d love to discuss the system with you and help you decide whether it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular kind of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and distributes it throughout the space to create a relaxing environment. This is an excellent option for industrial or larger facilities that require to cool more than the air.
There are two types of chillers: air-cooled and cooled by water. Both utilize vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool a refrigerant liquid that is then circulated through various temperatures. Air cooled chillers have fans that push air over the evaporator and condenser coils to eliminate heat. They are usually situated in a basement or mechanical room with a large footprint. Water-cooled chillers have an water box that is connected to an external cooling system, like a tower. They are typically smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also available with boilers that can be used to heat your space in winter. This is a great way to reduce energy consumption for buildings that need both heating and cooling or for areas where the demand for energy fluctuates during the seasons. It is more efficient to draw heat from a heating unit than to get it from the outside air.
Like an appliance that is packaged maintaining your chiller will improve its efficiency and decrease your utility bills. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with inspecting and servicing the compressor components are among the most important maintenance tasks. If you are using chillers that are water-cooled, the water treatment system inside your facility should be in good condition to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you choose will depend on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged chiller is the ideal choice for small-sized businesses or residential spaces. However, a VRF chiller or industrial chiller might be a better option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you determine the right solution for your particular building.
