Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems keep your company cool all day long. This helps promote an efficient, healthy work environment.
When choosing a contractor for commercial AC installation, make sure they have the proper license and experience in working on these types of systems. This will ensure that they can determine the right tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are many HVAC systems that are available, but a packaged AC system is the most common. These kinds of air conditioning units integrate cooling and heating into one unit, making them a great option for commercial spaces that require to make space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are typically seen in office buildings and malls.
In a standard packaged unit, all components are contained in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building through sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating, air enters the ductwork, through which it passes the evaporator coils. The coolant within the evaporator coils sucks up the heat from the air, and the blower motor of the air conditioner then moves the conditioned air into the building. The coolant that is used up can be recirculated through the evaporator and compressor to be reused.
Since the parts of a package unit are housed outdoors, they can be more compact than a traditional split system and don’t require an indoor furnace. This kind of system is typically more maintenance-friendly because there aren’t any ducts to allow animals or insects to make nests in, and the components are less likely to suffer from rust or other weather damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install since they are one unit. They are usually more efficient in energy use, as they don’t need to heat and cool multiple spaces like split systems.
The system also benefits of being built in an industrial facility in which the components are not exposed to extreme temperatures. This allows for higher performance from the unit and lower repair costs.
There are various kinds of package ACs available, including all-electric or gas/electric models. All-electric models are a good option for areas with warmer temperatures that don’t require being heated, while gas/electric units offer a solution for colder climates. Based on the model, there are combinations that can be used for both heating and cooling the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also referred to as ductless AC units, provide more comfortable cooling without the use of air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing to connect the two components. The compressor pulls cool air from the outdoor unit and pushes it through the inside air ducting. The system can also be used to heat your home making use of the same process reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are typically a better solution for older homes and rooms without ductwork. These systems can also be used to heat or cool sunrooms and garages. Our technicians are able to install the system. All they require to do is access to the wall on which your indoor unit is mounted, and a good location to place the outdoor unit.
A ductless system can provide cooling comfort in zones. This means that you’ll be able to keep your home at a moderate temperature while guests can remain at their preferred temperature. This type of system also has a higher energy efficiency because no duct-related loss of air is present, and some brands even offer incentives to encourage customers to use their new systems.
Another option is a multi-zone ductless system that has one outdoor compressor connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is located in the space that you’d like to cool or heat, and is controlled by its own remote. This setup lets you manage the temperature in every area of your building. It is a popular option for commercial spaces with multiple zones with different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit has air filters that remove pollutants and allergens, creating a healthier space for your employees and clients. This is especially beneficial in restaurants, where air quality is an important aspect in the overall experience of customers.
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems are a cost-effective solution for various commercial spaces. They offer precise temperatures and zoning features for various areas of the building, which allows users to tailor their comfort preferences and improve productivity. They also deliver energy savings by efficiently redistributing heat, which makes them a sustainable solution throughout the year.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor which circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in various rooms or zones. The compressor modulates its speed in order to precisely match the cooling and heating needs of each zone. This approach prevents unnecessary cycling, which consumes energy. The evaporator coils inside the indoor units can be used to provide heat and cooling, with the system adjusting its operation accordingly.
VRF systems are perfect for commercial buildings that have many requirements. This includes hospitals, offices, schools and other commercial structures. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat the individual rooms reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. The system’s low noise operation contributes to a quieter space and more security, making it designed for environments where distractions are a concern.
The VRF system is renowned for its energy efficiency, which is observed in the lower costs for utilities. The ability of the system to heat and cooling multiple zones independently can result in significant savings in energy compared to other HVAC systems.
VRF systems also have the ability to reduce the energy consumption of ductwork that is not in good condition or doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate modern equipment. The system’s ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions in the climate allows it to function more efficiently than other forms of heating and cooling. This flexibility makes the system popular for commercial buildings such as hotels, restaurants and office spaces that change their usage and occupancy patterns frequently. The system is a good choice for large buildings that are which are in the process of renovations and construction. It’s simple to retrofit existing ductwork, and it complies with specific building requirements. If you’re interested in finding out more about the ways that commercial VRF system could improve your space, please contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We’d be delighted to discuss the system with you and help decide if this is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a particular type of HVAC system that maximizes the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It cools water and distributes it throughout the room to create a pleasant atmosphere. This is a great solution for large buildings or industrial facilities that need to cool the air and more.
There are two kinds of chillers – air cooled and cooled by water. Both employ absorption or compression of vapor to cool a refrigerant that is then cycled through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that push air over the condenser and evaporator coils to take out heat. They are large in size and are typically situated in a mechanical room on the roof or in the basement. Water-cooled chillers come with a water box that is connected to an external cooling system like a tower. They are smaller and have a smaller footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers can also be fitted with boilers, allowing them to heat your space in winter. This is a great method to reduce energy consumption for structures that require cooling and heating, or for spaces where demand fluctuates seasonally. It is more efficient to draw warmth from a heating system than to draw it from outside air.
As with a packaged unit maintaining your chiller will increase its efficiency in operation and lower the cost of your utility bills. Cleaning the evaporator, condenser and compressor, along with checking and servicing the compressed, are some of the main maintenance tasks. If you have chillers that are water-cooled, the water treatment system within your facility should be in good shape to prevent corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you pick depends on the needs of your building and your budget. A packaged chiller is the best option for small-sized businesses or homes. However, a VRF chiller or industrial chiller may be the best option for larger structures. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you determine the best solution for your building.