Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your company cool throughout the day. This can help create an efficient, healthy work environment.
When choosing a contractor to do commercial AC installation, make sure they have the proper license and experience in working with these kinds of systems. This will ensure that they can determine the appropriate tonnage for your area.
Packaged AC Units
There are a myriad of HVAC systems to pick from however, one of the most common for commercial spaces is a packaged AC unit. These kinds of air conditioning units incorporate cooling and heating into one unit which makes them an ideal alternative for commercial spaces that require to save space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, are commonly found in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged unit, all components are housed in an outdoor cabinet which connects to the building via sheet metal ductwork. When the unit is cooling or heating, air enters the ductwork through which it is able to pass through the evaporator coils. The coolant inside the evaporator absorbs the heat of the air and the blower motor of the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air through the building. The coolant that is used up can be recirculated back through the evaporator and compressor to reuse it.
The parts of a packaged system are situated outside. This makes them smaller than a split system and they don’t need an indoor furnace. This kind of system is typically easier to maintain because there aren’t any ducts for animals or insects to make nests in, and the parts are less prone to suffering from weather-related rust or damage.
Packaged units are cheaper to install because they are a single unit. They are usually more energy efficient, since they don’t need to heat and cool multiple spaces like split systems.
Another benefit of this system is that it’s constructed in a factory environment and the components aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. This leads to a higher performance of the unit and lower repair costs.
There are various types of package AC units that include gas/electric and all-electric models. Gas/electric units are a great alternative for those who live in areas that are colder. All-electric models work best in warmer climates where heating isn’t required. There are also combination units that can be used to cool and heat the same structure, based on the model you choose.
Ductless AC Units
Ductless AC units, also known as mini-split systems, deliver a more comfortable cooling experience without the need for air ducts. The system comprises an indoor wall-mounted unit and an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubing that connect the two components. The compressor pulls cool air through the outdoor unit and pushes it through the interior air ducting. The system can be used to heat your home by using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are often an ideal solution for older homes and rooms without ductwork. These systems are also used to cool or heat garages and sunrooms. Our technicians are able to install the system. The only thing they need to install the system is access to the wall on which the indoor unit will be mounted and a suitable spot to put the outside unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. This means you can keep your home at a moderate temperature while permitting your guests to remain at their preferred temperature. This type of system provides greater energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present. Some manufacturers even offer discounts to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is a different option. It is comprised of a single outdoor compressor that is connected to multiple indoor units. Each unit is situated in the area that you’d like to cool or warm, and each has its own remote. This configuration gives you the ability to set the temperature for each area in your building and is an ideal choice for commercial spaces with many different areas that may require different cooling requirements.
Each indoor unit has air filters that eliminate pollutants and allergens, creating an environment that is healthier for your employees and customers. This is particularly useful in restaurants, where the air quality is a major element in the overall experience for customers.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide a cost-effective option for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control for various zones within the building. This allows occupants to customize the comfort and efficiency of their workplace. They also provide a green solution since they efficiently distribute heat.
In VRF systems the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units in different rooms or zones. The compressor regulates the speed so that it is in line with the cooling and heating needs of each area. This prevents unnecessary cycling that wastes energy. The evaporator coils can be used for heating. Again, the system will adjust its operation according to the temperature.
Zoning capability makes VRF systems ideal for hospitals, offices, schools, and other commercial buildings that have a diverse set of needs. The capability to simultaneously cool and heat each space reduces energy usage and maintenance. The system’s low noise operation results in a quieter space and more security, making it suited for environments where distractions are a concern.
Energy efficiency is an important benefit of VRF technology, and it is evident in the lower utility bills that are associated with implementing the system. The system’s ability for heating and cooling multiple zones in a single system also contributes to significant savings on energy compared to other HVAC technology.
VRF systems can even be used to cut down on the energy used for cooling and heating in existing ductwork, which is often not in good working order or does not have the capacity to handle the latest equipment. The system is more efficient than other cooling and heating systems due to its ability to quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a top option for offices as well as restaurants, hotels and other commercial buildings that frequently change their use and occupancy patterns. The system is a good choice for large buildings that are that are undergoing renovations or construction. It’s easy to retrofit existing ductwork, and it meets specific building requirements. Contact us at Mission Mechanical if you want to learn more about how the VRF commercial system can enhance your space. We are happy to discuss the system with you and help you decide whether it is the best heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is an HVAC system that can increase your commercial air conditioner’s capacity. It chills water and distributes it throughout the room to create a comfortable environment. This is a great solution for industrial and large-scale facilities with a need to cool the air and more.
There are two types of chillers: water cooled and air cooled. Both use vapor compression or absorption refrigeration to cool a liquid refrigerant which then cycles through different temperatures. The air cooled chillers use fans to blow air over the coils of the condenser or evaporator to eliminate heat. They are usually situated in a basement or mechanical room with a large footprint. Water-cooled chillers are equipped with an 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 are also equipped with boilers that can be used to heat your room in winter. This is a great way to conserve energy in buildings that need both cooling and heating or areas where the demand for energy fluctuates during the seasons. For instance, it’s much more efficient to draw heat from the boiler than to extract it from cold air outside.
Maintaining your chiller, just as a packaged unit, will improve its efficiency and reduce your utility bills. Cleaning the condenser, evaporator and compressor, along with making sure that the compressor is maintained and checked chiller are a few of the key maintenance tasks. If you use a chiller that is water-cooled or water-cooled, the water treatment system within your facility must be in good shape to avoid scaling and corrosion.
The kind of chiller you choose will depend on your budget and the requirements of your building. A packaged unit could be the best choice for small-sized businesses and homes, while a VRF or industrial chiller is more suitable for larger buildings with unique requirements. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical will help you choose the best solution for your building.