Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to keep your business cool throughout the day. This helps to create an effective and healthy workplace.
When choosing a contractor for commercial AC installation, ensure that they have the proper license and experience in working on these types of systems. This will guarantee that they will determine the right tonnage for your location.
Packaged AC Units
There are a variety of HVAC systems that are available however a packaged AC system is the most well-known. These air conditioning systems combine heating and cooling into one unit which makes them a great option for commercial spaces with limited space. These systems, also known as roof-top units, can be found in office buildings and malls.
In a typical packaged system, all of the components are contained in an outdoor cabinet, which is connected to the building by sheet metal ductwork. During the cooling/heating process, the air is pushed through the ductwork through which it is able to pass through the evaporator coils. The coolant in the evaporator sucks up the heat of the air and the motor that blows air from the air conditioner circulates this conditioned air into the building. The coolant that is used up can be recirculated through the compressor and evaporator to reuse it.
The components of a package system are all located outside. This makes them smaller than a split-system, and they don’t require an indoor furnace. This type of system is usually easier to maintain because there are no ducts for animals or insects to make nests in, and the components are less prone to suffering from rust or other weather damage.
Packaged units are less expensive to install because they are a single unit. They are also usually more energy efficient since they don’t have the same needs as a traditional split system that must work to efficiently cool and heat multiple rooms.
Another advantage of this system is that it’s manufactured in a factory setting, so the components aren’t subjected to extreme temperatures. This results in a better unit performance and lower repair costs.
There are a variety of package AC units, including all-electric and gas/electric models. Gas/electric units are an alternative for those who live in areas that are more cold. All-electric models work best in warmer regions where heating isn’t needed. Based on the model, there are combinations that can be used for cooling and heating the same building.
Ductless AC Units
Mini-split AC units, also known as ductless AC units, provide a more comfortable cooling without the use of air ducts. The system is made up of an indoor wall mounted unit as well as an outdoor compressor and refrigerant tubes connecting the two components. The compressor pulls cool air from the room through the outdoor unit, and then pushes it back through the interior air ducting. The system can be used to heat your home using the same method reversed.
Ductless air conditioners are usually an ideal solution for older homes and rooms that have no existing ductwork. They’re also commonly used to heat and cool sunrooms, garages, workshops, and other rooms that wouldn’t benefit from conventional HVAC systems. The system can be installed easily by our skilled technicians. The only thing they need to put the system in place is access to the wall where your indoor unit will mount, and a suitable place to mount the outside unit.
A ductless system can also provide cooling comfort in zones. It allows you to maintain the temperature of your space, while guests can adjust the temperature according to their preferences. This type of system also provides greater energy efficiency since no loss of air through ducts is present, and some brands offer rebates to encourage customers to use their new systems.
A multi-zone ductless unit is another option. It consists of an outdoor compressor which is connected to several indoor units. Each unit is situated in the area that you want to cool or warm, and each comes with its own remote. This setup lets you manage the temperature in every zone of your building. It is a popular choice for commercial spaces with numerous zones that have different needs for cooling.
The indoor units all have air filters that take out pollutants and other allergens from the air, making your workplace an environment that is healthier for both customers and employees. This is particularly beneficial in restaurants and other eateries, where the quality of the air is a crucial component of the customer’s overall experience.
Variable Refrigerant flow (VRF) Systems
VRF systems provide an energy-efficient alternative for commercial spaces. They provide precise temperature control and zoning capabilities for different areas of the building, allowing the occupants to personalize their personal preferences in terms of comfort and productivity. They are also a sustainable solution because they efficiently re-distribute heat.
In VRF systems, the outdoor unit houses a compressor that circulates refrigerant through pipes to indoor units located in various rooms or zones. The compressor adjusts its speed in order to precisely match the heating and cooling requirements of each zone. This prevents unnecessary cycling, which is a waste of energy. The evaporator coils can be used for heating. In addition, the system will adjust its operation in accordance with the temperature.
Zoning capabilities make VRF systems ideal for offices, hospitals schools, and other commercial buildings that have a diverse set of needs. The capability to simultaneously heat and cool each space reduces energy consumption overall and maintenance costs. The system’s low-noise operation results in a quieter atmosphere and better privacy, making it suited for environments where distractions are a problem.
The VRF system is known for its energy efficiency, which can be observed in the lower cost of utility bills. Additionally, the system’s capability to cool and heat multiple zones in a single unit can result in significant energy savings in comparison to other HVAC technologies.
VRF systems can also be used to reduce energy consumption in existing ductwork that is not in good condition or doesn’t have the capacity to accommodate newer equipment. The system is more efficient than other heating and cooling systems because it can quickly adapt to changing weather conditions. This flexibility makes it a popular option for offices as well as restaurants, hotels, and other commercial buildings which frequently change their uses 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 is able to meet specific building requirements. If you’re interested to learn more about how commercial VRF system can improve your space, please contact the team at Mission Mechanical. We would be happy to discuss the system with you and help you decide if this is the right heating and cooling solution for your business.
Chillers
A chiller is a special type of HVAC system that can increase the capacity of your commercial air conditioner. It chills water and distributes it throughout the room to create a comfortable environment. This is a great solution for industrial or larger installations that need to cool more than the air.
There are two types of chillers – air cooled and cooled by water. Both utilize absorption refrigeration or vapor compression to cool liquid refrigerants that is then circulated through various temperatures. Air-cooled chillers are equipped with fans that move air over the evaporator and condenser coils to remove excess heat. They are typically located in a mechanical or basement room with a huge footprint. Water-cooled chillers have a water box which is connected to an external cooling system like a tower. These chillers are often smaller and have a lower footprint than air-cooled units.
Chillers are also equipped with boilers that can be used to heat your space in winter. This is an efficient method to reduce energy consumption in a structure that requires both cooling and heating, or for areas that have seasonal fluctuations in demand. It’s more efficient to obtain warmth from a heating system rather than to get it from the outside air.
Maintaining your chiller, just like a packaged unit will increase its efficiency and lower your utility costs. The main maintenance tasks include cleaning the condenser and evaporator as well as making sure that the compressor is serviced and checked, and performing regular oil changes. If you have water-cooled chillers, your facility’s water treatment system should be in good order to avoid corrosion and scaling.
The type of chiller you choose will depend on your budget and the needs of your building. A packaged chiller is the ideal choice for small and residential spaces, while industrial chillers, such as a VRF, is more suitable for larger buildings with unique needs. A professional from 1 Source Mechanical can help you choose the ideal solution for your building.