How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more structured schedule than residential ones. They require a greater knowledge of the equipment and generally work within specific business hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor space can lead to more productive employees. Old or unmanaged HVAC systems can cause distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a humid environment.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC options for your building such as single split systems, multi-split, VAV or VRF systems, as well as district cooling systems. It is essential to consider the dimensions of your space, energy efficiency requirements, climate, and the sustainability goals of your company when determining what system is best for your business. Engaging a professional service provider, like Jack Lehr, can help you select the ideal system for your needs.
A single-split system is a great option for smaller spaces and individual rooms. It is made up of an air conditioner and evaporator coil which work together to eliminate the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated throughout the property via ductwork. These systems are generally less expensive than central HVAC systems.
The major drawback with this type of system is that it’s restricted to one room, so if you need to cool and heat multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to select a different option. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger buildings because they allow you to connect nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that transfer waste heat from warm areas to cooler areas to conserve energy. These systems are ideal for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces since they offer individual temperature control for every area of the building.
You can put in one-split units in your building. However, you may discover that multi-split systems can be more affordable in the long-term due to their greater efficiency in energy and flexibility. They are also simpler to maintain, and can react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They are also more flexible because they can be used to cool or heat your home based on the season. This means you can create a comfortable and eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in many different forms. The layout and design of the building will determine which type of system is best for your business. Also, you should consider the size of your building, the number and location of rooms. The climate of your area is also a factor to consider. Systems like heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are able to adapt to various climates.
Single split systems are most frequent in smaller commercial structures and offices. These are ductless HVAC systems that include furnaces and air conditioning units that operate separately. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems can be put in place inexpensively and are ideal for smaller offices and spaces. They’re also easy to maintain and in the event that one unit ceases working for any reason, it won’t affect the other units.
Multi-split systems are a step up from single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units with one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technologies. The indoor units can be mounted on walls or floor-standing, or hidden within the ceiling for a more discreet appearance. These systems are perfect for medium-sized businesses since they can control the temperature throughout a space using individual controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems since sensors built into the system can detect minor 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 the occupants.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRF or VRV system, which offers cooling and heating via an assortment of indoor air handlers connected to one or more outdoor units using refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good fit for midsize businesses, and they’re particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces because they can cool a space without creating hot spots or using up energy. They’re also suitable for retail and restaurant establishments, as they can be positioned in the ceiling or on walls, or even in spaces without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems offer unique benefits. While most HVAC systems are in one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers an unique blend. These HVAC systems are at the forefront of technology and make use of inverter compressors create climate zones that can be controlled independently. These systems provide precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet the requirements of its occupants. This permits a range of temperature settings, and also the highest energy efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, an outdoor unit is connected with several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems are connected to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can also be situated within a reasonable distance of the outdoor unit, allowing for a flexible design and installation.
They utilize the highest efficiency heat pump cycle which incorporates an electric resistance heater. The systems also have multiple modes for heat recovery, allowing them to repurpose heat that would otherwise be wasted. This is a fantastic feature for businesses who need to maintain high temperatures, but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Unlike traditional duct systems, which often require a dedicated indoor unit for each room they are operated by varying the flow of refrigerant to the individual terminal units. When the space is activated by a zoning controller or inverter remote, the compressor closest to that room shuts off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the space to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are a popular choice for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, as well as other large facilities with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have control panels that can be operated by anyone.
As with all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV device requires expert installation to maximize its reliability and effectiveness. A certified technician understands the system from top to bottom, and is also aware of the installation details that can determine the performance and longevity of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides additional benefits to business owners, in addition to preventing failures and reducing costs. For example, keeping an appropriate and comfortable temperature throughout the office improves employee performance and morale, especially when compared to a chilly work environment. It can also prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of focus.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine checks and tune-ups in order to avoid problems that could disrupt business operations. A skilled technician will carry out various tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and to uncover issues that could cause costly and disruptive repairs. You can ensure that any potential issues are detected early and corrected before they get worse by selecting an organization that provides a comprehensive checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit technicians will check the electrical connections to the unit, belts, and motor. They will also check for signs of wear and damage and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated correctly. Additionally, they will clean evaporator and condenser coils to stop dust and dirt from accumulating in the system, causing obstructions and lower efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters on a regular basis and replace them. A blocked filter can impede air flow and overloads the system, resulting in decreased energy efficiency and possible equipment failure. Technicians will also clean the ductwork, fan, plenum and flue or vente pipe to prevent accumulation.
In the end the technician will check the drain pan and ensure it is properly sloped to prevent condensation or water build-up. They will also lubricate the moving parts so that they can run smoothly.
A routine maintenance plan for commercial HVAC system can also help meet the terms of a lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies often require proof of regular maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. The documentation of routine HVAC maintenance will prove that the tenant is committed to upkeep and will take care of the investment in the property.
Routine maintenance is vital to ensure that your system is operating properly, whether you have a single unit, multiple units or VRV/VRF. When it comes to routine maintenance, a trusted and experienced technician will identify and fix minor problems before they grow larger and more costly.