How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more planned schedule than residential ones. They require a deeper knowledge of the equipment and typically work within specified business hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor environment leads to more productive employees. Poorly managed or outdated HVAC systems can cause distractions through the creation of uncomfortable temperatures and a stale conditions.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC system options available for your building, including single split systems, multi-split, VRF and 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 deciding which HVAC system is suitable for your business. Working with a professional provider such as Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your business.
Single-split systems are great for smaller or isolated rooms. It consists of an air conditioning unit, evaporator coil and furnace which work together to remove cool air and heat that is then circulated through ductwork that runs throughout the property. They are generally cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
The major drawback with this type of system is that it’s restricted to just one room If you want to cool and heat several areas or buildings, you’ll have to select a different option. Multi-split systems are a great solution for larger properties because it allows you to connect up to nine indoor air handlers with just one outdoor unit.
These systems make use of heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. They are also suitable for large offices and multi-tenant retail spaces because they can provide individualized temperature control in each area of the building.
While it’s possible to install single-split systems in your house, you may find that installing multi-split systems is more economical in the long run due to the higher energy efficiency and flexibility they provide. They can also be easier to maintain and can respond faster 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. You can create a relaxing and sustainable living space with them all year round.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in many types, and deciding which system is right for your company is based on the layout and design of your building. The size of your facility, the number of rooms, and their location are also important factors to consider. The climate of your area is also a factor to consider. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are able to adapt to various climates.
Single split systems are common in smaller commercial buildings 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 that is connected to a condenser by refrigerant tubes. A thermostat regulates the operation of both units. Single split systems are inexpensive to set up and are great for smaller offices and spaces. They are also simple to maintain, and if for any reason, one unit stops working, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split system builds on the single-split system by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit with the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be put on the wall, laid on the floor or hidden in the ceiling for an elegant 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 because sensors built into the system can detect minor environmental changes and make minimal adjustments. This allows the system to operate with a higher energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system while still providing the best comfort for those who use it.
A VRV or VRF is another option for larger companies. This system provides cooling and heating through a series indoor air handlers that are connected to one or more outdoor units through refrigerant tubes. These systems can be a good fit for midsize businesses, and they are particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces since they can cool spaces without creating hot spots or wasting energy. They are also ideal for retail establishments and restaurants, as they can be put in the ceiling or walls, or even in a space with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems come with unique advantages. While most HVAC and cooling systems are classified into two categories – ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV is an exclusive mix. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones that can be controlled independently. These systems provide precise temperature control, which ensures that each zone meets the specific requirements of the people who live there. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings and also the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In the commercial VRV/VRF system one outdoor unit is connected to a number of indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings and then placed together. These indoor air handling units are connected to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can be installed some distance away from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
The systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle which incorporates an electric resistance heater. The systems also have a variety of modes for heat recovery, allowing them to reuse heat that would otherwise be wasted. This is an excellent option for businesses that need to keep their temperature high, but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having a dedicated indoor unit per space, they function by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When a room is activated via an zoning remote, or a zone controller, the compressor nearest that space shuts down and the pressure drops. Then, coolant from other compressors is pumped into that space to compensate. This process is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible they are an ideal choice for multifamily homes, office buildings shopping malls, and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and come with control panels that can be operated by anyone.
A VRF/VRV requires expert installation, as is the case with any other advanced technology. This will maximize the reliability and effectiveness of the system. A certified technician will be familiar with the system backwards and forwards and all of the installation nuances that could affect the performance of your new system and its longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides other benefits to business owners, apart from the prevention of failures and reduction in costs. A comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can improve employee morale and performance in particular when compared with an icy work environment. Additionally, it can help to prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or a lack of focus.
To avoid problems that may affect the operation of a business, commercial HVAC systems require routine checks and tune-ups. Technicians perform a variety of tests and tasks to optimize the system’s performance and discover hidden issues which could lead to costly and disruptive repairs. You can ensure that any potential issues are identified early and fixed before they get worse by selecting a company that offers an extensive checklist.
In a routine maintenance visit technicians will check the electrical connections to the unit, belts, and motor. They will also check for indications of wear and damage and make sure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils and condenser to stop dirt from accumulating within the system. This could cause blockages and reduce efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters on a regular basis and replace them. A blocked air filter can hinder air flow, overload the system, and lead to equipment failure. Technicians will also examine and clean the blower assembly, ductwork the plenum, flue, and fan or vent pipe to minimize the build-up.
A technician will also examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped properly to stop condensation or water from building up. They will also lubricate the moving parts so that they run smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC unit can also assist in ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of a lease agreement. Before leasing retail space, landlords and property managers often require evidence of regular maintenance. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its maintenance.
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system operates properly, whether you have one unit, several units or a VRV/VRF. When you perform routine maintenance, a reliable and skilled technician will be able to identify and correct minor issues before they grow larger and cost more.