How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business
Commercial HVAC jobs typically have a more organized schedule than jobs for residential workers. They require a better understanding of the equipment, and work during designated working hours.
The comfort of a comfortable indoor environment leads to more productive employees. Old or poorly managed HVAC systems can create distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stale atmosphere.
Single Split System
There are many commercial HVAC system options available for your building including single split systems, multi-split, VRF or VAV systems, and district cooling systems. When choosing which HVAC system is best for your business, it’s important to take into account the size of your building, its energy efficiency requirements and climate goals. Working with a professional service provider, such as Jack Lehr, can help you select the right system to meet your needs.
A single-split system is an excellent choice for smaller spaces and rooms that are separate. 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 around the property via ductwork. These systems are generally more affordable than central HVAC systems.
The major drawback with this kind of system is that it’s limited to a single room, so if you need to heat and cool multiple areas or buildings, you’ll need to select another option. Multi-split systems are ideal for larger homes because it lets you connect up to nine indoor air handlers using just one outdoor unit.
These systems make use of heat pumps to transfer heat from warm areas to cooler areas, saving energy. These systems are also perfect for large offices or multi-tenant retail space because they provide individual temperature control in each area of the building.
You can put in one single-split system in your home. However, you might find the multi-split systems to be more affordable in the long-term due to their greater energy efficiency and flexibility. They are also simpler to maintain and respond quicker to temperature fluctuations than single-split units. They also offer more flexibility, as they can be used to heat or cooling your property depending on the season. This means you can use them to create a cozy, eco-friendly environment all year.
Multi Split System
Commercial HVAC systems come in many types, and deciding which system is right for your company is based on the layout and style of your building. Additionally, you must consider the size of your building, as well as 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 flows (VRF) are ideally suited to various climates.
Single split systems are common in smaller commercial buildings and offices. They are HVAC units with ductless construction that include separate air conditioning units as well as heaters. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler which is connected to a condenser by refrigerant tubes. A thermostat controls the operation of both units. Single split systems are cheap to install and are ideal for offices and smaller spaces. They are also easy to maintain, and if for some reason one unit stops working, it won’t impact the others.
The multi-split system is built on the single-split model by connecting multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit using advanced inverter technology. The indoor units can be mounted on walls and floor-standing or concealed in the ceiling for an elegant and discreet appearance. These systems are ideal for small-sized businesses because they can control temperature throughout a space using individual controls.
A multi-split system uses less energy than a traditional forced-air system because sensors in the system can detect small 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 occupants.
Another option for larger businesses is a VRF or VRV system that provides cooling and heating via an assortment of indoor air handlers that are connected to one or more outdoor units using refrigerant tubes. These systems are a great option for businesses with a mid-sized size and are particularly efficient in large warehouses since they can cool the space without creating hotspots and burning up energy. These systems are also ideal for restaurants and retail stores because they can be positioned on the ceiling, walls or even in an area without ductwork.
VRV/VRF System
While the majority of heating and cooling systems are classified into two categories, ducted or ductless commercial VRF/VRV systems provide a unique blend of benefits. These HVAC systems are cutting-edge and use inverter compressors to create climate zones which can be independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control to ensure that each zone is able to meet the requirements of its occupants. This allows for a wide range of temperature settings, as well as maximum energy efficiency and system uptime.
In a commercial VRV/VRF the outdoor unit is connected to several indoor units that can be mounted on ceiling or walls. These indoor air handling units connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant piping. They can be installed a reasonable distance away from the outdoor unit to permit a flexible design and installation.
The systems utilize the highest efficiency heat pumps cycle, which is backed by an electric resistance heating system. The systems also have multiple modes for heat recovery, allowing them to repurpose heat that could otherwise be wasted. This is a fantastic feature for businesses who need to maintain high temperatures and also reduce their carbon footprint.
Contrary to traditional duct systems which often require a dedicated indoor unit for each room, these systems operate by varying the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When a room is activated by the zoning remote or zone controller, the compressor closest to the area shuts down and its pressure decreases. Coolant from other compressors will then be pumped into the room to compensate. This is called volume displacement.
Because these systems are so flexible, they are an ideal choice for multifamily offices, homes, shopping malls, and other large structures with complex floor plans. They are incredibly quiet to run and come with simple controls that anyone can access.
Like all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV system requires expert installation to increase its efficiency and reliability. A certified technician will be familiar with the system’s forward and backward directions as well as the installation nuances that can affect your new system’s performance and longevity.
Routine Maintenance
Commercial HVAC maintenance provides other benefits to business owners, apart from the prevention of failures and reduction in costs. For example, keeping a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the office can improve employee performance and morale, particularly when compared to a cold workplace. It can also prevent productivity loss due to discomfort or lack of concentration.
To avoid problems that may cause disruption to business operations, commercial HVAC systems require regular checks and tune-ups. A skilled technician can perform a wide range of tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and uncover hidden issues that could lead to expensive and disruptive repairs. You can ensure that any potential problems are detected early and rectified before they get worse by selecting an organization that provides an extensive checklist.
During a routine maintenance visit, the technician will inspect electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also look for signs of wear or damage. They will also ensure that thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils as well as the condenser in order to prevent dirt from building up in the system. This could cause blockages and reduce efficiency.
Air filters should be checked and replaced frequently. A blocked air filter could restrict air flow, overwork the system and cause equipment failure. Technicians will also inspect and clean the blower assembly, ductwork the fan, plenum or vent pipe in order to minimize accumulation.
Technicians will also check the drain pan to ensure it is sloped in a way that will keep condensation and water from building up. They will also make sure that the moving parts are lubricated so that they operate smoothly.
A routine maintenance schedule for commercial HVAC system can also help meet the terms of a lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies often require proof of routine maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Providing documentation of routine HVAC maintenance will prove that the tenant is devoted to maintaining the property and will take care of the property’s investment.
Routine maintenance is vital to ensure that your system is operating correctly, whether you own one unit, multiple units, or a VRV/VRF. When you perform routine maintenance, a reliable and experienced technician will identify and address minor issues before they become larger and more expensive.