How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more planned schedule than residential ones. They require a more in-depth knowledge of the equipment and generally work within specific working hours.
A comfortable indoor environment can result in more productive employees. Inefficient or unmanaged HVAC systems can cause distractions by creating uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy conditions.
Single Split System
There are a range of commercial HVAC systems available for your building. These include single split systems, multi-splits as well as VAV systems or VRF systems as well as district cooling systems. It is important to take into consideration the size of your space and energy efficiency requirements, climate and your company’s sustainability goals when deciding which HVAC system is best for your business. Working with a professional service provider like Jack Lehr, can help you choose the best system for your requirements.
Single-split systems work well for smaller or isolated rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioner and evaporator coil that work together to remove the heat and cool the air. The air is then circulated throughout the property via ductwork. These systems are typically cheaper to install than central HVAC systems.
This kind of system has one disadvantage it is that it can only cool or heat only one room. If you’re looking to cool or heat several rooms, you’ll have to look for a different solution. Multi-split systems are a great alternative for larger homes as they permit you to pair nine indoor air handlers to just one outdoor unit.
These systems are equipped with heat pumps that move waste heat from warm zones to cooler areas in order to help conserve energy. They are also suitable for large office spaces and multi-tenant retail space because they can provide individualized temperature control in each area of the building.
While it’s possible to have one-split systems installed in your building but you may find that installing multi-split systems is more cost-effective in the long run due to the higher efficiency in energy and the flexibility they offer. They’re also simpler to maintain and are able to respond faster than single-split systems to changing temperatures. They’re also more flexible since they can be utilized to heat or cool your home, based on the season. You can create a comfortable and sustainable space all year round.
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 the best for your company. The size of your facility and the number of rooms, and their location are other important aspects to take into consideration. The climate of your area is also a factor to consider. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems adapt well to various climates.
Single split systems are common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC systems that feature air conditioning units and furnaces that operate in a separate manner. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler which is connected to a condenser through refrigerant tubes. Both units are controlled by a thermostat. Single split systems can be set up inexpensively and are ideal for smaller offices and areas. They are also easy to maintain, and if for some reason one unit stops working, it won’t impact the other units.
Multi-split systems are a step up from single-split systems. They connect multiple indoor units to a single outdoor unit by using the latest inverter technology. Indoor units can be mounted on the wall, laid on the floor, or concealed in the ceiling to create a an elegant appearance. These systems are ideal for medium-sized companies because they can control temperature throughout the space by utilizing specific controls.
Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems due to sensors built into the system are able to detect small environmental changes and make minor adjustments. This allows the system to operate with a higher energy efficiency than a traditional forced-air system, while ensuring optimal comfort for occupants.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRV or VRF system that provides heating and cooling through a series of indoor air handlers linked to outdoor units using refrigerant tubes. These systems can be suitable for mid-sized businesses, and they are particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces because they are able to cool spaces without creating hot spots or using up energy. They’re also suitable for retail and restaurant establishments since they can be put in the ceiling or walls or even in a space with no existing ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
Commercial VRF/VRV Systems come with unique advantages. While the majority of HVAC and cooling systems are in one of two categories – ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV is an unique blend. These modern HVAC systems make use of inverter compressors to create unique climate zones that are independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone meets the needs of its occupants. This allows for a broad range of temperature settings, as well as maximum efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF an outdoor unit is connected with several indoor units that can be hung on walls or ceilings. These indoor air handling systems are connected to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipes. They can be set some distance away from the outdoor unit to permit a flexible design and installation.
These systems employ a high-efficiency heat pump cycle, which is backed by an electric resistance heating system. These systems have multiple options for heat recovery that allow them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unutilized. This is an excellent feature for companies that have to keep their temperatures high, but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
These systems work differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of having a dedicated indoor unit per space, they operate by varying refrigerant flow to each terminal unit. When an area is activated using a zoning controller or inverter remote the compressor closest to the room is shut off and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the space to compensate. This is known as volume displacement.
Because these systems are flexible they are an ideal choice for multifamily offices, homes shopping malls, and other large facilities with complex floor plans. They are extremely quiet and have controls that anyone can operate.
A VRF/VRV requires skilled installation, as with any advanced technology. This will ensure its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician will be familiar with the system’s back and forward directions and the installation nuances that can affect your new system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides additional benefits to business owners, aside from stopping failures and reducing costs. Maintaining a comfortable and consistent temperature within the office can enhance employee morale and performance particularly when compared to an icy work environment. It can also prevent productivity loss due to fatigue or lack of concentration.
A commercial HVAC system requires regular checks and tune-ups in order to avoid issues that could impact the business. A skilled technician will perform a wide range of tests and tasks to optimize the system to ensure optimal performance and uncover hidden issues that may cause costly and disruptive repairs. By selecting a firm that has a thorough maintenance checklist, you can ensure that any issues are detected early and corrected before they get any worse.
When a routine maintenance check-up is scheduled the technician will check electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also check for signs of wear and damage, and ensure that the thermostats are calibrated correctly. In addition, they will clean condenser and evaporator coils in order to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating in the system, causing blockages and reduced efficiency.
Check and replace regularly air filters. A blocked air filter can hinder air flow, overload the system and cause equipment failure. Technicians will also look over and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, plenum, fan and flue or vent pipe to reduce the build-up.
Technicians will also check the drain pan to ensure it is sloped correctly to prevent water or condensation from building up. They will also grease the moving parts to ensure that they can run smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC unit can also assist in ensuring compliance with the conditions of a lease contract. Landlords and property management companies typically require proof of routine maintenance prior to leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of regular HVAC maintenance proves that the tenant will maintain the property and is committed to its upkeep.
Whether you have a single split system multiple units, or a VRV/VRF system, regular maintenance is necessary to keep it operating properly. When it comes to routine maintenance, a trustworthy and skilled technician will spot and address minor issues before they become larger and more expensive.