How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more planned schedule than jobs for residential workers. They require a deeper understanding of the equipment, and work during designated hours of operation.
Comfortable indoor environments make for more productive employees. Old or poorly managed HVAC systems can cause distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a humid atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC systems for your building. These include single split systems, multi-splits, VAV systems and VRF systems and district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the dimensions of your space as well as the energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability objectives when determining what system is suitable for your business. Working with a professional service provider, like Jack Lehr, can help you choose the best system to meet your needs.
Single-split systems are great for smaller or isolated rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioner, evaporator coil and furnace which work together to remove heat and cool air, which is then circulated through ductwork throughout the property. These systems are typically more affordable to install than central HVAC systems.
The major drawback with this type of system is that it’s limited to just one room, so if you need to cool and heat several areas or buildings, you’ll need to opt for a different option. Multi-split systems are a great option for larger buildings, as they allow you to connect nine air handlers in the indoor area to only one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that transfer heat from warmer areas to cooler areas to save energy. These systems are ideal for large office spaces or multi-tenant retail spaces since they offer individual temperature control in each area of the building.
While it’s possible to install single-split systems in your home, you may consider multi-split systems are more efficient in the long term due to the higher efficiency in energy and the flexibility they provide. They are also easier to maintain and are able to respond faster than single-split systems to changing temperatures. They’re also more versatile because they can be utilized to heat or cool your home based on the season. You can create a cozy and sustainable living space with them all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems are available in a variety of different designs. The design and layout of the structure will determine which one is best for your business. Also, take into consideration the size of your building, the size and location of rooms. The type of climate in the area you are in is another factor to consider. Heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) are ideally suited to various climates.
Single split systems are common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC units that have separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler that is connected to a condenser via refrigerant tubes. A thermostat regulates the operation of both units. Single split systems can be put in place cheaply and are perfect for smaller offices and areas. They are also easy to maintain and if any reason, one unit stops functioning, it won’t affect the other units.
The multi-split system is built on the single-split system by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. Indoor units can be erected on the wall, placed on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling to give an elegant appearance. These systems are great for medium-sized companies because they can help control temperatures throughout a space with specific controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems since sensors in the system can detect minor environmental changes and make minor adjustments. This allows the system to perform at a much greater energy efficiency than a conventional forced-air system while still providing optimal comfort for the occupants.
Another option for larger companies is a VRV or VRF system that provides cooling and heating through an assortment of indoor air handlers connected to one or more outdoor units via refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great choice for mid-sized businesses and are particularly efficient in large warehouses since they are able to cool the space without generating hotspots or wasting energy. These systems are also suitable for retail and restaurant locations as they can be mounted on the ceiling, walls or in an area without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems provide an exclusive set of benefits. While most HVAC and cooling systems are in one of two categories – ducted or ductless - commercial VRF/VRV offers a unique mix. These HVAC systems are up-to-date and make use of inverter compressors create climate zones that can be controlled separately. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets the needs of its occupants. This allows for a variety of temperatures, and also the highest energy efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can also be situated within a reasonable distance of the outdoor unit, allowing for a flexible design and installation.
The systems use the highest efficiency heat pump cycle that incorporates an electric resistance heater. These systems have multiple options for heat recovery that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise be unused. This is a great feature for businesses that need to maintain high temperatures, however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.
In contrast to traditional duct systems, which usually require a separate indoor unit for each space, these systems are operated by varying the flow of refrigerant between individual terminal units. When the room is activated by a zoning remote or a zone controller, the compressor closest to the area shuts down and its pressure drops. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the room to compensate. This is referred to as volume displacement.
They are popular because they can be adapted. They are often used in multifamily homes shops, offices, and other large structures with complicated floor plans. They are extremely quiet and come with controls that anyone can use.
A VRF/VRV requires skilled installation, as with any advanced technology. This will maximize its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician will know the system backwards and forwards as well as the nuances of installation that can affect the system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance can bring additional benefits for business owners, aside from stopping failures and reducing costs. For instance, maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts employee performance and morale, particularly when compared with a cold workplace. It can also prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or lack of focus.
To avoid problems that may disrupt the business process, commercial HVAC systems require regular inspections and tune ups. Technicians will conduct various tests and tasks in order to optimize the system’s performance and identify hidden issues which could lead to costly and lengthy repairs. You can ensure that any potential problems are detected early and rectified before they get worse by selecting a company that offers an extensive checklist.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled technicians will examine the electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look for any signs of wear or damage, and make sure that thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils and condenser to prevent dirt from accumulating within the system. This can cause blockages and decrease efficiency.
Make sure to regularly check and replace air filters regularly and replace them. A blocked filter hinders air flow and overloads the system, leading to decreased energy efficiency and possible equipment failure. Technicians will also clean the ductwork, fan flue, and plenum pipe to prevent the accumulation.
In the end an expert will examine the drain pan and ensure it is sloped correctly to prevent condensation or water build-up. They will also grease all moving parts to help them operate smoothly and efficiently.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the terms of a lease agreement. Before leasing retail space, landlords and property managers typically require proof of regular maintenance. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its maintenance.
If you own a single split system multiple units, or a VRV/VRF system, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure that it is operating correctly. During routine maintenance, a trustworthy and experienced technician will identify and address minor issues before they grow larger and more expensive.