How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more structured schedule than residential jobs. They require a more in-depth knowledge of the equipment, and typically work within specified working hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor space can lead to more productive employees. Old or poorly managed HVAC systems can create distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stale atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC systems available for your building including single split systems, multi-split systems, VRF and VAV systems, and district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the dimensions of your building and energy efficiency requirements, climate and the sustainability goals of your company when deciding which HVAC system is suitable for your business. A professional service such as Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your company.
A single-split system is an excellent choice 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 around the property via ductwork. They are typically more affordable than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system has one major drawback it is that it can only cool or heat one room. If you’re looking to cool or heat multiple rooms, you’ll have to look for a different solution. A multi-split system is a great solution for larger buildings since it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers to only one outdoor unit.
These systems utilize heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. They’re also ideal for large office spaces and multi-tenant retail space because they can provide individualized temperature control for each part of the building.
It is possible to install one single-split system in your home. However, you may find the multi-split systems to be more cost-effective over the long term due to their increased energy efficiency and flexibility. They are also easier to maintain and respond quicker than single-split systems to changes in temperatures. They’re also more versatile because they can be used to cool or heat your home, based on the season. This means that you can create a comfortable and eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in a variety of different forms. The design and layout of the structure will determine which one is the best for your company. The size of your facility, the number of rooms and their location are also important aspects to take into consideration. Another aspect to consider is the type of climate you are experiencing in your region. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flows (VRF) are well-suited to various climates.
Single split systems are the most common for smaller commercial buildings and offices. They are ductless HVAC units that have separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space has an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser unit equipped with refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems can be put in place inexpensively and are ideal for offices and smaller areas. They’re also easy to maintain, and if one of them stops functioning for any reason, it won’t affect the other units.
The multi-split system is built on the single-split system by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. The indoor units can be wall-mounted and floor-standing or concealed in the ceiling to create an elegant and discreet appearance. These systems are ideal for medium-sized businesses because they can help control temperatures throughout a space with individual controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than a traditional forced-air system due to the fact that sensors built into the system detect minor environmental changes and make minor adjustments. This lets the system operate at a much higher energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system and still provide optimal comfort for occupants.
Another option for larger companies is a VRF or VRV system, which offers cooling and heating via a series of indoor air handlers connected to outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good option for businesses with a mid-sized size and they’re especially efficient in large warehouses since they are able to cool the space without generating hotspots or wasting energy. They’re also suitable for retail and restaurant establishments, as they can be put on the ceiling or in the walls or even in areas with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Although the majority of heating and cooling systems are classified into two categories, ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV systems provide an unique set of advantages. These cutting-edge HVAC systems make use of inverter compressors to create individual climate zones that are independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet its occupant’s needs. This allows for a broad range of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In the commercial VRV/VRF system one outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be placed on ceilings or walls and connected. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit using refrigerant piping. They can be placed a reasonable distance away from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
The systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that uses an integral backup electric resistance heater. These systems come with a variety of heat recovery options that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a great option for businesses that want to maintain high temperatures, however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems work differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having an indoor unit that is dedicated to each space, they function by varying the flow of refrigerant through each terminal unit. When the room is activated by the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor nearest that space shuts down and its pressure drops. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the space to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
These systems are popular due to the fact that they are able to be used in a variety of ways. They are typically used in multifamily homes shops, offices, and other buildings with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and come with simple controls that anyone can access.
A VRF/VRV requires skilled installation, just like any advanced technology. This will increase its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician understands the system from top to bottom, and will also know all the installation nuances which can affect the performance and durability of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides additional benefits to business owners, in addition to preventing failures and reducing costs. For instance, keeping an even and comfortable temperature throughout the office improves employee productivity and morale, especially when compared to a cold workplace. It also helps to prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
To prevent issues that could affect business operations commercial HVAC systems require routine checks and tune-ups. A technician will perform various tests and tasks to optimize the system’s performance and discover hidden issues which could lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. By choosing a company with a comprehensive maintenance checklist, you can make sure that any potential issues are detected early and corrected before they become worse.
When you visit the maintenance center regularly, a technician will inspect the electrical connections to the unit as well as belts and motor. They will also look for signs of wear and tear, and make sure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. In addition they will clean the evaporator and condenser coils to stop dust and dirt from building up in the system, which can cause obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Air filters need to be checked and replaced regularly. A blocked air filter could hinder air flow, overload the system and lead to equipment failure. Technicians will also examine and clean the blower assembly, ductwork plenum, fan and flue or vent pipe to minimize the build-up.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped in a way that will prevent water or condensation from building up. They will also lubricate all moving parts to make them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance plan for a commercial HVAC system can also help meet the terms of a lease agreement. Property management companies and landlords often require proof of regular maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its upkeep.
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system operates correctly, whether you own one unit, multiple units or a VRV/VRF. During routine visits, a knowledgeable and reliable technician will be able to spot and fix small problems before they turn into bigger and more costly ones.