How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to be more structured than residential HVAC jobs. They require a greater understanding of the equipment and work during designated business hours.
A comfortable indoor environment can lead to more productive employees. Unmanaged or outdated HVAC systems can lead to distractions through the creation of uncomfortable temperatures and a humid atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC systems available for your building such as single split systems, multi-split, VAV or VRF systems, as well as district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the dimensions of your building as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate and the sustainability goals of your company when deciding which HVAC system is right for your business. Working with a professional service provider, such as Jack Lehr, can help you select the right system for your needs.
Single-split systems work well for smaller spaces or even individual rooms. It comprises an air conditioner, evaporator coil, and furnace that work together to extract cool and warm air that is then circulated through ductwork throughout the building. These systems are usually cheaper than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system has one major drawback it is that it can only heat or cool a single room. If you want to cool or heat several rooms, you will need to select a different option. Multi-split systems are a great alternative for larger homes because they allow you to pair nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems have heat pumps that move waste heat from warm areas to cooler ones to conserve energy. These systems are also perfect for large offices or multi-tenant retail space because they provide individual temperature control in each part of the building.
While it’s possible to have single-split systems in your home but you may discover that multi-split systems are more economical in the long run due to the higher energy efficiency and flexibility they provide. They can also be easier 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 utilized to heat or cool your home based on the season. This means you can use them to create a comfortable, sustainable living space all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in a variety of different styles. The layout and design of the building will determine which system is best for your business. Also, take into consideration the size of your building, the room size and the location. The climate of the area you are in is another factor to consider. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to different climates.
Single split systems are most frequent in smaller commercial structures and offices. They are ductless HVAC systems that feature air conditioning units and furnaces that operate separately. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler, which is connected to a condenser unit with refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by a thermostat. Single split systems are affordable to set up and are great for smaller offices and spaces. They’re also easy to maintain, and in the event that 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 model by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. The indoor units can be mounted on walls or floor-standing, or hidden within the ceiling to create a more discrete appearance. These systems are perfect for medium-sized companies because they allow for the control of temperatures throughout a space with individual 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 enables it to operate at a greater energy efficiency level than a traditional system, but still delivering the best comfort for the occupants.
A VRV or VRF is a different alternative for larger businesses. This system can provide heating and cooling via a series indoor air handlers which are connected to a single or multiple outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems can be suitable for mid-sized companies, and are particularly effective for warehouses that are large because they are able to cool a space without creating hot spots or burning up energy. These systems are also great for restaurant and retail establishments since they can be installed on the ceiling, walls or even in an area without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While most HVAC and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV systems have a unique blend of benefits. These modern HVAC systems use inverter technology compressors to create distinct climate zones that are independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control, which ensures that each zone is able to meet the exact requirements of the people living in it. This permits a range of temperature settings and also the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be placed on walls or ceilings and then placed together. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit via refrigerant pipes. They can also be situated within a reasonable distance of the outdoor unit, which allows for an adaptable design and installation.
These systems employ a high-efficiency heat pump cycle with an integral backup electric resistance heating system. They have a variety of options for heat recovery which allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is an excellent option for businesses that need to maintain high temperatures and also reduce their carbon footprint.
Unlike traditional duct systems, which often require a dedicated indoor unit for each room, these systems are operated by adjusting the flow of refrigerant between each terminal unit. When the room is activated by the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor closest to the area shuts down and its pressure drops. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible they are popular for multifamily homes, office buildings, shopping malls, and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet to run and come with simple controls that anyone can use.
Like all advanced technology, a VRF/VRV requires expert installation to increase its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician will be familiar with the system’s forward and backward directions, as well as the nuances of installation that could affect the system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to stopping breakdowns and reducing costs for energy, commercial HVAC maintenance can also bring other benefits to business owners. For instance, maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts employee performance and morale, particularly when compared with a cold workplace. It also helps to prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of focus.
To prevent issues that could disrupt the business process commercial HVAC systems require routine inspections and tune-ups. Technicians will conduct various tests and tasks to maximize the efficiency of the system and uncover hidden problems that could result in costly and lengthy repairs. By choosing a company with a comprehensive maintenance checklist, you can make sure that any potential issues are caught early and corrected before they get any more serious.
In a routine maintenance visit the technician will examine the electrical connections to the unit as well as belts and motor. They will also check for indications of wear and damage and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils and condenser to stop dirt from building up in the system. This can cause blockages and reduce efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters regularly and replace them. A blocked filter hinders air flow and overworks the system, resulting in lower energy efficiency and the possibility of equipment failure. Technicians also clean the ductwork, fan, the flue, and plenum pipe to prevent accumulation.
Finally an expert will examine the drain pan and make sure it is sloped properly to prevent condensation or water build-up. They will also grease all moving parts to make them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system can also help in ensuring the terms of a lease agreement. Before leasing retail space, landlords and property managers usually require proof of regular maintenance. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance proves that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its upkeep.
Routine maintenance is vital to ensure that your system operates efficiently, whether it’s one unit, several units, or VRV/VRF. During regular visits, a knowledgeable and reliable technician will spot and fix small problems before they escalate into larger and more costly ones.