How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more planned schedule than residential ones. They require a better understanding of the equipment, and are required to work during specific working hours.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Inefficient or unmanaged HVAC systems can create distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stale environment.
Single Split System
There are a variety of commercial HVAC system options available for your building including single split systems, multi-split systems VAV or VRF systems, as well as district cooling systems. It’s important to consider the dimensions of your space and 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 like Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your business.
A single-split system is an excellent option for smaller and individual rooms. It comprises an air conditioner, evaporator coil, and furnace that work together to extract cool and warm air, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the property. These systems are typically more affordable to install than central HVAC systems.
The biggest drawback to this kind of system is that it’s restricted to one room If you want to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to select a different option. A multi-split system is a great solution for larger properties since it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers using only one outdoor unit.
These systems have heat pumps that transfer waste heat from warm areas to cooler areas to conserve energy. These systems are also ideal for large offices or multi-tenant retail space since they offer individual temperature control in each part of the building.
You can install one single-split system in your building. However, you might find that multi-split systems will be more economical in the long-term due to their increased energy efficiency and flexibility. They’re also easier to maintain, and can respond quicker to temperature fluctuations than single-split units. They also have more versatility, as they can be used to heat or cooling your home based on the season. This means that you can create a comfortable, eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in many varieties, and the decision of the best one for your business depends on the layout and design of your building. Also, you should consider the size of your building, the number and location of rooms. Another factor to consider is the type of climate you are experiencing in the area you are located in. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems can be adapted to various climates.
Single split systems are the most commonly used for smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC units that include air conditioning units and furnaces that operate independently. Each space has an indoor air handler connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. Both units are controlled by a thermostat. Single split systems can be set up cheaply and are perfect for offices and smaller areas. They are also easy to maintain, and if one of them stops working for any reason, it won’t impact the other units.
Multi-split systems are a step up from single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units with a single outdoor unit by using the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be mounted on the wall, placed on the floor or hidden in the ceiling to give an appearance that is more discrete. These systems are perfect for small-sized businesses because they can control the temperature throughout a space using individual controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems due to sensors integrated into the system can detect minor environmental changes and make minimal adjustments. This enables it to operate at a higher efficiency than a conventional system, yet still providing optimal comfort to occupants.
Another option for larger enterprises is a VRV or VRF system that provides cooling and heating through an assortment of indoor air handlers that are connected to one or more outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are ideal for mid-sized businesses, and they’re particularly effective for warehouses that are large because they are able to cool the space without creating hot spots or wasting energy. They’re also suitable for restaurants and retail locations, as they can be positioned in the ceiling or walls or even in areas without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV systems provide a unique blend of benefits. These cutting-edge HVAC systems utilize inverter technology compressors to create distinct climate zones that can be independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet its occupant’s needs. This permits a wide range of temperature settings as well as the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, the outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be mounted on the walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipes. They can also be placed at a distance that is not too far from the outdoor unit, allowing for an adaptable design and installation.
These systems use a high-efficiency heat pump cycle, which is backed by an electric resistance heating system. They have a variety of options for heat recovery which allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unutilized. This is an excellent option for businesses that want to maintain high temperatures however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems work differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having an indoor unit for each space, they function by varying the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When the room is activated by a zoning remote or a zone controller, the compressor nearest that space shuts down and its pressure decreases. Then coolant from other compressors is pumped into the space to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible they are popular for multifamily offices, homes shopping malls, and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate and come with simple controls that anyone can utilize.
As with all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation to increase its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician will know the system backwards and forwards and the installation nuances that can make or break the system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance can bring other benefits to business owners, in addition to stopping failures and reducing costs. For example, keeping an even and comfortable temperature throughout the office improves employee performance and morale, especially when compared to a chilly work environment. In addition, it helps stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires regular inspections and tune-ups to prevent problems that could disrupt business operations. A skilled technician can perform many tests and tasks to optimize the system to ensure optimal performance and uncover hidden issues that may cause costly and disruptive repairs. You can ensure that any potential problems are identified early and fixed before they get worse by selecting a service that offers an extensive checklist.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled the technician will check the electrical connections, belts, and motors. They will also look for signs of wear and damage and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils and condenser to prevent dirt from accumulating within the system. This could cause blockages and reduce efficiency.
Air filters must be inspected and replaced regularly. A clogged air filter can restrict air flow, overwork the system and lead to equipment failure. Technicians also clean the ductwork, fan, plenum and flue or vente pipe to prevent the accumulation of dust.
Then the technician will check the drain pan and make sure it is sloped correctly to avoid condensation or water build-up. They will also make sure that the moving parts are lubricated so that they operate smoothly.
A regular maintenance schedule for commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies often require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance proves that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its maintenance.
If you own one split system, multiple units, or a VRV/VRF system, regular maintenance is necessary to keep it operating properly. During routine maintenance, a trustworthy and experienced technician will identify and address minor issues before they grow larger and more expensive.