How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more organized schedule than jobs for residential workers. They require a greater understanding of the equipment, and work during designated business hours.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Old or poorly managed HVAC systems can lead to distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stale atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC options for your building such as single split systems, multi-split systems, VRF or VAV systems, and district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the size of your building, energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability objectives when determining what system is suitable for your business. A professional service provider like Jack Lehr, can help you select the right system to meet your needs.
A single-split is a great option for smaller and rooms that are separate. It consists of an air conditioner, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to remove cool air and heat, which is then circulated through ductwork that runs throughout the property. They are typically cheaper than central HVAC systems.
The main drawback of this kind of system is that it’s restricted to just one room If you want to cool and heat several areas or buildings, you’ll need to opt for another option. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger properties, as they allow you to pair nine indoor air handlers with just one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that transfer heat from warmer zones to cooler areas in order to help conserve energy. These systems are also perfect for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces because they can provide individual temperature control in each part of the building.
While it’s possible to install single-split systems in your building, you may consider multi-split systems is more efficient in the long term due to the higher energy efficiency and flexibility they offer. They are also simpler to maintain, and can react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They’re also more versatile because they can be utilized to heat or cool your property, depending on the season. You can create a relaxing and sustainable living space with them all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of varieties, and the decision of which one is best for your business is contingent on the layout and design of your building. Also, you should consider the size of your building, the number and location of rooms. Another aspect to consider is the type of climate you are experiencing in your region. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to different climates.
Single split systems are most common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC units that have separate air conditioning units and heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. A thermostat regulates the operation of both units. Single split systems can be set up inexpensively and are ideal for smaller offices and areas. They are also simple to maintain and if some reason one unit stops functioning, 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 with the latest inverter technology. The indoor units can be mounted on walls or floor-standing, or hidden within the ceiling for an elegant and discreet appearance. These systems are perfect for medium-sized business because they can control the temperature throughout a space using individual controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems because sensors integrated into the system are able to detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This allows it to operate at a greater energy efficiency than a conventional system, while still delivering optimal comfort to occupants.
Another option for larger companies is a VRF or VRV system, which offers cooling and heating through an assortment of indoor air handlers that are connected to one or more outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good fit for midsize businesses, and they’re especially efficient for large warehouses because they can cool spaces without creating hot spots or using up energy. These systems are also great for retail and restaurant locations as they can be mounted in the ceiling, on walls, or in an area without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems come with an exclusive set of advantages. While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems fall into one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers an exclusive mix. These modern HVAC systems utilize inverter technology compressors to create unique climate zones that can be independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control, ensuring that each zone meets the exact requirements of the people who live there. This permits a range of temperatures, as well as maximum efficiency in energy and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to a number of indoor units that can be placed on walls or ceilings and then placed together. These indoor air handling systems are connected to the outdoor unit via refrigerant pipes. They can also be located at a distance that is not too far from the outdoor unit, allowing for flexibility in design and installation.
The systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heater. The systems also have multiple heat recovery modes, allowing them to reuse heat that could otherwise be wasted. This is a great feature for businesses who need to maintain high temperatures, but also want 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 the flow of refrigerant through each terminal unit. When a room is activated via a zoning remote or a zone controller, the compressor that is closest to that space shuts down and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the room to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
They are popular because they are able to be used in a variety of ways. They are typically used in multifamily houses, offices, shopping malls and other large structures with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet to run and have simple controls that anyone can utilize.
As with all advanced technology, a VRF/VRV requires expert installation to maximize its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician is familiar with the system inside and out, and will also be aware of the installation details that can affect the performance and endurance of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance offers additional benefits for business owners, apart from preventing failures and reducing costs. For instance, keeping an appropriate and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts employee performance and morale, especially when compared to a cold work environment. It can also help prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or a lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to avoid issues that could impact business operations. A skilled technician can perform many tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and discover hidden issues that may cause costly and disruptive repairs. You can ensure that any potential issues are identified early and fixed before they become worse by selecting a company that offers a thorough checklist.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled technicians will examine electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look for signs of wear or damage, and check that thermostats are calibrated properly. In addition they will clean the condenser and evaporator coils in order to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating within the system, causing obstructions and lower efficiency.
Air filters need to be checked and replaced frequently. A blocked filter hinders air flow and overloads the system, resulting in reduced energy efficiency and possibly equipment failure. Technicians will also look over and clean the blower assembly, ductwork the fan, plenum or vent pipe to minimize accumulation.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to make sure it is sloped in a way that will keep condensation and water from accumulating. They will also lubricate the moving parts to let them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A schedule of routine maintenance for a commercial HVAC unit can also help satisfy the conditions of a lease contract. Landlords and property management companies typically require proof of routine maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant is responsible for maintaining the property and is committed to its maintenance.
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that your system is operating efficiently, whether it’s a single unit, multiple units or a VRV/VRF. When it comes to routine maintenance, a trusted and skilled technician will be able to identify and fix minor problems before they grow larger and more expensive.