How Commercial HVAC Can Benefit Your Business

Commercial HVAC roles tend to have a more organized schedule than residential jobs. They require a more in-depth knowledge of the equipment, and typically work within designated business hours.

Comfortable indoor environments lead to more productive employees. Unmanaged or old HVAC systems can create distractions due to uncomfortable temperatures and a stuffy environment.

Single Split System

There are a variety of commercial HVAC systems for your building. They include single split systems and multi-splits, VAV systems or VRF systems and district cooling systems. When deciding which one is best for your business, it’s important to take into account the size of your building, its energy efficiency requirements and climate goals. A professional service such as Jack Lehr can help you choose the best system for your business.

Single-split systems are great for smaller spaces or even individual rooms. It is comprised of an air conditioner, evaporator coil and furnace that work together to extract cool air and heat and circulate it through ductwork throughout the building. These systems are usually 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 have to choose a different option. Multi-split systems are a great option for larger buildings as they permit you to pair nine indoor air handlers to just one outdoor unit.

These systems have heat pumps that transfer waste heat from warm zones to cooler areas in order to help conserve energy. They’re also ideal for large offices and multi-tenant retail areas since they offer individualized temperature control in every area of the building.

While it’s possible to have single-split systems in your home, you may discover that a multi-split system is more efficient in the long term due to the higher energy efficiency and flexibility they provide. They can also be easier to maintain and respond quicker than single-split systems to changes in temperatures. They’re also more versatile because they can be utilized to heat or cool your property, depending on the season. You can create a comfortable and sustainable environment with them all year round.

Multi Split System

Commercial HVAC systems come in a variety of different designs. The layout and design of the building will determine which type of system is the best for your company. The size of your facility as well as the number of rooms, and their location are all important aspects to take into consideration. The type of climate in your area is another consideration. Systems such as heat pumps and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems adapt well to various climates.

Single split systems are most used in smaller commercial buildings and offices. These are ductless HVAC systems that include air conditioning units and furnaces that operate independently. Each space is equipped with an indoor air handler connected to a condenser unit that has refrigerant tubing. A thermostat regulates the operation of both units. Single split systems can be installed cheaply and are perfect for offices and smaller spaces. They are also easy to maintain and if for some reason one unit stops working, 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 with the latest inverter technology. The indoor units can be mounted on walls or floor-standing, or hidden within the ceiling for a more discreet appearance. These systems are perfect for medium-sized businesses since they can control temperature throughout a space using specific controls.

Multi-split systems consume less energy than traditional forced-air systems since sensors integrated into the system detect small environmental changes and make small adjustments. This enables it to operate at a higher energy efficiency level than a traditional system, yet still providing the best comfort for the occupants.

Another option for larger businesses is a VRF or VRV system that provides cooling and heating via an assortment of indoor air handlers connected to outdoor units by refrigerant tubes. These systems are a good fit for midsize businesses, and they are particularly efficient for warehouses with large spaces since they can cool the space without creating hot spots or burning up energy. These systems are also ideal for retail and restaurant locations since they can be installed on the ceiling, walls, or in an area that does not have ductwork.

VRV/VRF System

While most heating and cooling systems are divided into two categories: ductless or ducted commercial VRF/VRV systems have a unique blend of benefits. These advanced HVAC systems make use of inverter compressors to create unique climate zones that can be independently controlled. These systems offer precise temperature control, ensuring that each zone is able to meet the exact requirements of the people living in it. This allows for a broad range of temperature settings, as well as the highest efficiency and uptime for the system.

In a commercial VRV/VRF the outdoor unit is connected with several indoor units that can be mounted on ceiling or walls. These indoor air handling units connect to the outdoor unit through refrigerant pipe. They can be installed some distance away from the outdoor unit to permit a flexible design and installation.

They utilize the highest efficiency heat pump cycle which incorporates an electric resistance heater. They have a variety of heat recovery options, which allows them to reuse heat that would otherwise go unused. This is a great feature for companies that have to maintain high temperatures, however, they also need to reduce their carbon footprint.

These systems work differently than traditional duct systems. Instead of requiring a dedicated indoor unit per space, they function by varying the flow of refrigerant to each terminal unit. When the space is activated by a zoning controller or inverter remote, the compressor closest to the room shuts off and its pressure decreases. 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 commonly used in multifamily houses, offices, shopping malls and other large buildings with elaborate floor plans. They are extremely quiet and come with controls that anyone can use.

As with all advanced technologies, a VRF/VRV device requires expert installation to maximize its reliability and efficiency. A certified technician is familiar with the system inside and out, and will also be aware of the installation details that can make or break the performance and durability of your new system.

Routine Maintenance

In addition to stopping breakdowns and reducing energy costs, commercial HVAC maintenance also has other benefits for business owners. For example, keeping an even and comfortable temperature throughout the office boosts the performance of employees and boosts morale, especially when compared with a cold work environment. In addition, it helps stop the loss of productivity due to discomfort or a lack of focus.

A commercial HVAC system requires regular checks and tune-ups in order to avoid issues that could impact business operations. A skilled technician can perform a wide range of tests and tasks to optimize the system for optimal performance and uncover hidden issues that may lead to expensive and disruptive repairs. You can ensure that any potential problems are detected early and corrected before they worsen by choosing an organization that provides a comprehensive checklist.

In a routine maintenance visit the technician will check electrical connections, belts and motors. They will also check for signs of wear or damage, and ensure that thermostats are calibrated properly. They will also clean the evaporator coils and condenser in order to prevent dirt from building up in the system. This can cause blockages and reduce efficiency.

Check and replace regularly air filters. A blocked air filter could hinder air flow, overload the system and lead to equipment failure. Technicians will also look over and clean the blower assembly, ductwork, the fan, plenum or vent pipe to minimize build-up.

In the end, a technician will inspect the drain pan to ensure it is sloped correctly to avoid condensation or water build-up. They will also make sure that the moving parts are lubricated so that they can run smoothly.

A routine maintenance schedule for a commercial HVAC system also helps satisfy the lease agreement. Landlords and property management companies typically require proof of routine maintenance before leasing out space to retail tenants. Documentation of routine HVAC maintenance shows that the tenant has taken care of the property and is committed to its maintenance.

Whether you have a single split system multiple units, or VRV/VRF systems, regular maintenance is necessary to keep it operating properly. When you perform routine maintenance, a trustworthy and skilled technician will spot and fix minor problems before they become larger and more costly.