How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more organized schedule than residential jobs. They require a deeper understanding of the equipment and typically work within designated business hours.
A comfortable indoor environment can result in more productive employees. Old or unmanaged HVAC systems can lead to distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy atmosphere.
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 is essential to consider the size of your building as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate, and the sustainability goals of your company in determining which system is suitable for your business. A professional service such as Jack Lehr can help you determine the best system for your business.
Single-split systems work well for smaller spaces or even individual rooms. It is made up of an air conditioner and an evaporator coil which work together to eliminate the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated throughout the building through ductwork. These systems are typically cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system comes with one major drawback: it is able to only heat or cool a single room. If you wish to cool or heat several rooms, you will need to select a different option. Multi-split systems are a great solution for larger homes because it allows you to pair up to nine indoor air handlers with only one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that move waste heat from hot areas to cooler areas to help conserve energy. These systems are also ideal for large offices or multi-tenant retail space because they can provide individual temperature control for each area of the building.
Although it is possible to have one-split systems installed in your building however, you might discover that multi-split systems are more cost-effective in the long run because of the increased efficiency in energy and the flexibility they offer. They’re also easier to maintain, and can respond quicker to temperature fluctuations than single-split units. They are also more versatile in that they can be used for heating or cooling your home based on the season. You can create a comfortable and sustainable environment with them all year long.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different forms. The layout and design of the structure will determine which one is the best for your company. The size of your facility as well as the number of rooms and their location are other important aspects to take into consideration. The climate of your area is another consideration. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are well-suited to different climates.
Single split systems are the most common for smaller commercial buildings 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 connected to a condenser unit with refrigerant tubing. A thermostat is the sole control for both units. Single split systems are inexpensive to install and are ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They’re also easy to maintain, and if one unit ceases working for reasons of any kind, it won’t impact the other units.
The multi-split system builds on the single-split model by connecting multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit with the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be erected on the wall, placed on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling for an appearance that is more discrete. These systems are ideal for medium-sized businesses because they can help control temperatures throughout a space with specific controls.
A multi-split system uses less energy than a traditional forced-air system due to the fact that built-in sensors detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This allows the system to perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system, while ensuring the best comfort for those who use it.
A VRF or VRV is another alternative for larger businesses. This system can provide cooling and heating via an indoor air handler system that are connected to one or more outdoor units through refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good option for small-sized businesses, and are particularly effective in large warehouses, as they are able to cool the space without creating hotspots and using up energy. They’re also suitable for restaurants and retail locations since they can be positioned in the ceiling or walls or even in spaces that has no ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While the majority of heating and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ductless or ducted, commercial VRF/VRV systems offer an unique set of advantages. These advanced HVAC systems utilize inverter technology compressors to create unique climate zones that are independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control, making sure that each zone meets the exact requirements of the people living in it. This allows for a variety of temperatures, as well as maximum energy efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF, one outdoor unit is connected to a number of indoor units that can be hung on ceilings or walls and be placed together. These indoor air handling systems are connected to the outdoor unit using refrigerant pipes. They can be set at a distance from the outdoor unit to allow for a more flexible design and installation.
The systems utilize a high-efficiency heat pumps cycle, which is backed by an electric resistance heating system. The systems also have multiple heat recovery modes, which allow them to repurpose heat that could otherwise be wasted. This is a fantastic feature for companies that have to keep their temperatures high, but also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
Contrary to traditional duct systems which typically require an indoor unit for each room, these systems work by adjusting the flow of refrigerant through individual terminal units. When a space is activated with a zoning controller or inverter remote, the compressor closest to that space is shut down and the pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the space to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
They are popular because they are able to be used in a variety of ways. They are commonly employed in multifamily homes shops, offices, and other large buildings with elaborate floor plans. They are extremely quiet to operate, and they have simple controls that anyone can use.
As with all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV device requires expert installation to maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician will be familiar with the system backwards and forwards as well as the nuances of installation that can make or break the performance of your new system and its longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides additional benefits to business owners, aside from stopping failures and reducing costs. A comfortable and consistent temperature in the office can boost employee morale and performance, especially compared to an uninviting work environment. It can also help prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires routine inspections and tune-ups to prevent issues that could impact business operations. A skilled technician will carry out many tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and to uncover 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 an organization that provides a comprehensive checklist.
When you visit the maintenance center regularly technicians will check the electrical connections to the unit, belts, and motor. They will also look for indications of wear and tear, and make sure that the thermostats are calibrated correctly. Additionally they will clean the condenser and evaporator coils to prevent dust and dirt from building up within the system, which can cause obstructions and decreases in efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters. A blocked air filter can restrict air flow, overwork the system and cause equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, plenum, fan and flue or vent pipe in order to minimize the build-up.
Then an expert will examine the drain pan and ensure it is sloped correctly to avoid water or condensation build-up. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they run smoothly.
A schedule of routine maintenance for commercial HVAC unit will also help in meeting the conditions of a lease contract. Property management companies and landlords often require proof of regular maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Providing documentation of routine HVAC maintenance can prove that the tenant is committed to upkeep and will take care of the investment of the property.
Routine maintenance is crucial to ensure that your system operates efficiently, whether it’s one unit, multiple units or VRV/VRF. During routine visits, a skilled and reliable technician will identify and address small issues before they turn into bigger and more expensive ones.