How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs are generally more organized than residential HVAC jobs. They require a greater knowledge of the equipment, and typically work within designated business hours.
A comfortable indoor environment can result in more productive employees. Unmanaged or outdated HVAC systems can create distractions through the creation of uncomfortable temperatures and a humid conditions.
Single Split System
There are numerous commercial HVAC options for your building, including single split systems, multi-split systems VAV or VRF systems, and district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the dimensions of your building as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability goals in determining which system is suitable for your business. Engaging a professional service provider, such as Jack Lehr, can help you select the ideal system for your requirements.
Single-split systems are great for smaller spaces or even individual rooms. It comprises an air conditioner, evaporator coil, and furnace that work together to remove heat and cool air that is then circulated through ductwork throughout the building. These systems are usually less expensive than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system comes with one disadvantage: it is able to only heat or cool only one room. If you’re looking to cool or heat several rooms, you will need to look for a different solution. Multi-split systems are an excellent option for larger properties, as they allow you to connect nine indoor air handlers with just one outdoor unit.
These systems utilize heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, thereby saving energy. These systems are also perfect for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces because they provide individual temperature control in each area of the building.
Although it is possible to have one-split systems installed in your home but you may discover that a multi-split system is more cost-effective in the long run due to the higher efficiency in energy and the flexibility they offer. They are also easier to maintain and are able to respond quicker than single-split systems in response to changing temperatures. They also offer more flexibility in that they can be used for heating or cooling your home depending on the season. This means that you can create a cozy, eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of types, and deciding which system is right for your company is based on the layout and design of your building. Also, take into consideration the size of your building, as well as the number and location of rooms. Another thing to take into consideration is the type of climate you are experiencing in your area. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems adapt well to different climates.
Single split systems are most commonly used for smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC systems with air conditioning units and furnaces that operate separately. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler which is connected to a condenser through refrigerant tubes. A thermostat is the sole control for both units. Single split systems are inexpensive to install and ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They are also simple to maintain and if for any reason, one unit stops working, it won’t affect the others.
Multi-split systems are an improvement on single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit using the latest inverter technology. The indoor units can be mounted on walls and floor-standing or concealed in the ceiling to create an elegant and discreet 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 integrated into the system detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This enables it to operate at a higher efficiency than a conventional system, while still delivering optimal comfort to occupants.
A VRF or VRV is another alternative for larger businesses. The system offers heating and cooling via the use of a series of 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’re especially efficient for large warehouses because they can cool spaces without creating hot spots or using up energy. They are also ideal for retail establishments and restaurants, as they can be put in the ceiling or walls or even in spaces that has no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems offer a unique combination of benefits. While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems fall into one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers an exclusive mix. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and utilize inverter compressors to create climate zones which can be independently controlled. These systems provide precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets its occupant’s needs. This permits a wide range of temperature settings as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF system, one outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be hung on ceilings or walls and then placed together. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipes. They can be placed some distance away from the outdoor unit in order to permit a flexible design and installation.
These systems employ a high-efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heating system. They also come with multiple modes for heat recovery, allowing them to repurpose heat that could otherwise be wasted. This is an excellent feature for companies that want to maintain high temperature, but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems operate differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring an indoor unit for each space, they operate by varying the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When the space is activated by a zoning controller or inverter remote, the compressor closest to the room shuts off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will be pumped into the space to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible, they are a popular choice for multifamily offices, homes shopping malls, and other large buildings with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have control panels that can be operated by anyone.
Like all advanced technology, a VRF/VRV requires expert installation in order to maximize its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician will be familiar with the system’s forward and backward directions, as well as the installation nuances that can affect the system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
In addition to stopping breakdowns and reducing energy consumption in commercial HVAC maintenance provides other benefits for business owners. The ability to maintain a comfortable and constant temperature within the office can enhance the morale of employees and their performance particularly when compared to an icy work environment. Additionally, it can stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to prevent issues that could impact the operation of your business. Technicians perform a variety of tests and tasks to improve the performance of the system and uncover hidden problems that could result in costly and lengthy repairs. You can ensure that any potential issues are detected early and rectified before they get worse by selecting a company that offers a comprehensive checklist.
During a regular maintenance visit, a technician will inspect the electrical connections of the unit as well as belts and motor. They will also check for signs of wear and damage and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated properly. Additionally, they will clean condenser and evaporator coils in order to stop dust and dirt from building up within the system, which causes obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Regularly check and replace air filters. A clogged filter restricts air flow and overloads the system, resulting in lower energy efficiency and the possibility of equipment failure. The technicians will also clean the ductwork, fan the flue, and plenum pipe to prevent the accumulation.
Finally an expert will examine the drain pan to ensure it is sloped properly to avoid water or condensation build-up. They will also make sure that the moving parts are lubricated so that they operate smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC unit can also assist in ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions of a lease contract. Before leasing retail space landlords and property managers often require evidence of regular maintenance. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance can show that the tenant is dedicated to maintaining the property and will take care of the property’s investment.
Whether you have a single split system multiple units, or a VRV/VRF system, routine maintenance is essential to keep it operating properly. During routine maintenance, a trusted and experienced technician will identify and correct minor issues before they become more significant and cost more.