How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs tend to be more formal than residential HVAC jobs. They require a greater understanding of the equipment and are required to work during specific business hours.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Old or unmanaged HVAC systems can cause distractions because of uncomfortable temperatures and a stale environment.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC systems available for your building including single split systems, multi-split, VRF or VAV systems, and district cooling systems. When deciding which system is best for your business, it’s important to consider the size of your building, energy efficiency requirements as well as climate and sustainability goals. A professional service like Jack Lehr can help you select the right system for your business.
Single-split systems are great for smaller spaces or individual rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioning unit, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to remove cool and warm air, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the property. These systems are generally less expensive than central HVAC systems.
This type of system has one disadvantage it is that it is able to only heat or cool a single room. If you wish to cool or heat several rooms, you’ll have to look for a different solution. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger properties as they permit you to connect nine indoor air handlers to only one outdoor unit.
These systems use heat pumps to transfer heat from warm to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. These systems are ideal for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces because they can provide individual temperature control in each part of the building.
It is possible to install one single-split system in your building. However, you may find the multi-split systems to be more economical in the long term because of their higher efficiency in energy and flexibility. They are also easier to maintain, and they can react faster to temperature changes than single-split units. They also have more versatility, as they can be used to heat or cooling your property depending on the season. This means that you can create a cozy, sustainable environment all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different styles. The design and layout of the building will determine which type of system is ideal for your business. Additionally, you must consider the size of your building, as well as the room size and the location. The type of climate in your area is another consideration. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flows (VRF) are ideally suited to different climates.
Single split systems are frequent in smaller commercial structures and offices. These are HVAC units without ducts that come with separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler, which is connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by thermostats. Single split systems are inexpensive to install and are ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They are also easy to maintain, and if for reasons beyond their control, one unit ceases working, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split model builds on the single-split design by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit, using the latest inverter technology. The indoor units can be wall-mounted and floor-standing or concealed in the ceiling to create a more discrete appearance. These systems are perfect for medium-sized business because they can control temperature of the space with individualized controls.
Multi-split systems use less energy than traditional forced-air systems since sensors integrated into the system detect small environmental changes and make minimal adjustments. This enables it to operate at a greater energy efficiency level than a traditional system, yet still providing optimal comfort to occupants.
Another option for larger enterprises is a VRF or VRV system that provides cooling and heating via a series of indoor air handlers linked to outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems can be ideal for mid-sized businesses, and they’re particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces since they can cool the space without creating hot spots or using up energy. These systems are also great for restaurant and retail establishments since they can be installed in the ceiling, on walls or in an area that does not have ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems provide a unique combination of benefits. While most HVAC systems fall into one of two categories – ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV is a unique mix. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones that can be controlled independently. These systems offer precise temperature control, making sure that each zone is able to meet the exact needs of the people who live there. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings, as well as maximum energy efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be mounted on ceilings or walls and connected. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit via refrigerant pipes. They can be placed some distance away from the outdoor unit in order to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
They utilize a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that uses an integral backup electric resistance heater. These systems have multiple heat recovery options, which allows them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unutilized. This is an excellent feature for businesses who need to keep their temperature high however, they also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Unlike traditional duct systems, which usually require a separate indoor unit for each room, these systems work by adjusting the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When the space is activated by an inverter or zoning control remote, the compressor closest to that space is shut down and the pressure decreases. Then coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This process is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible they are a popular choice for multifamily homes, office buildings, shopping malls, and other large facilities with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and come with simple controls that anyone can utilize.
A VRF/VRV requires expert installation, just like any advanced technology. This will increase the reliability and effectiveness of the system. A certified technician understands the system from top to bottom, and is also aware of the details of installation that could affect the performance and endurance of your new system.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides additional benefits for business owners, aside from the prevention of failures and reduction in costs. For example, keeping a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts employee performance and morale, especially when compared to a chilly workplace. In addition, it can prevent the loss of productivity due to discomfort or lack of focus.
To avoid problems that may cause disruption to the operation of a business commercial HVAC systems require routine checks and tune-ups. A technician will perform various tests and tasks in order to improve the performance of the system and identify hidden issues which could lead to costly and time-consuming repairs. You can make sure that any potential issues are identified early and fixed before they worsen by choosing a service that offers a comprehensive checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit, the technician will inspect the electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look for indications of wear and tear, and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated correctly. 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.
Check and replace regularly air filters. A blocked air filter could hinder air flow, overload the system and lead to equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the plenum, flue, and fan or vent pipe in order to minimize the build-up.
Then, a technician will inspect the drain pan to ensure it is sloped correctly to avoid condensation or water build-up. They will also lubricate the moving parts to let them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance schedule for commercial HVAC unit will also help in meeting the conditions and terms of a lease agreement. When leasing retail space landlords and property managers usually require proof of regular maintenance. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance proves that the tenant has taken care of the property and is committed to its maintenance.
If you own a single split system, multiple units or VRV/VRF systems, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure it’s running properly. During routine visits, a skilled and reliable technician will be able to spot and address small issues before they become larger and more expensive ones.