What are the different types of commercial systems?
To have working commercial hvac systems year-round is vital for a successful business. You want to ensure your customers are comfortable while they are doing business with you and you want to keep your employees happy as well. Understanding your commercial HVAC systems is an important detail for various reasons. In this article we will explain the most common types of commercial HVAC systems.
What is A Commercial HVAC System?
Before diving into the different types of commercial HVAC systems we will discuss what they are. First, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Cooling) systems are vital equipment to buildings. They are responsible for keeping comfortable temperatures and humidity and assist with indoor air quality. Although different, commercial HVAC systems operate similarly to achieve common goals.
1. AC units lower the temperature by passing air through refrigerant or water-cooled systems. AC units are also responsible for removing excess moisture from the air during its cycle.
2. Heating systems raise the temperature by passing air through components that heat the air units’ water, radiator coils or gas.
3. Ventilation systems keep the air clean by circulating the air with fans through filtration systems.
The biggest difference between commercial and residential HVAC systems is in their size and capacity. Residential HVAC units are typically smaller with less power. However, commercial HVAC systems range from smaller commercial spaces to large corporate buildings and warehouses. To meet the wide range of demand HVAC systems, have different heating and cooling setups and capacities.
Single Split Systems
The most common type of HVAC system found in smaller commercial buildings is a single split system. They allow for individual control making them ideal for locations with a smaller footprint such as small offices, server rooms, restaurants, or commercial shopping. These systems include an air conditioner and furnace which will circulate the air throughout the air ducts. It is also worth mentioning that since each unit is self-contained, so if one of them stops operating the other units at the site will continue working.
Multi-Split Systems
The multi-split commercial HVAC systems are similar to the single split system in operation but offer much higher energy efficiency and smaller outdoor footprint. These types of systems allow you to connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. These systems also include sensors that detect temperature fluctuations and can adjust accordingly saving on energy costs. Whereas single split systems use a significant amount of energy every time the compressor turns on and off. The multi-split system also has heat pumps. These also help to save money as they move heat from warmer areas to cool ones. They also require less equipment and therefore space but achieve the same result.
VRF or VRV Systems
VRF systems (variable refrigerant flow) or VRV (variable refrigerant volume) systems are more ideal for medium to large commercial spaces such as larger office spaces or hotels. There are two main types of VRF systems available: heat pump and heat recovery. A heat pump VRF system can provide either heating or cooling to the space, but not at the same time. This option is most common and worth exploring for open floor plan layouts. On the other hand, the heat recovery system can provide both heating and cooling at the same time. They use warm air or what is called “waste heat” from different areas of the building and delivering where heat is called for. This option is best for buildings with smaller rooms.
Contact LA Construction, Heating and Air
If you are looking into commercial HVAC installation or replacement or commercial HVAC maintenance then you are aware there may be an overwhelming number of new terminology and HVAC options. Give us a call today at 818-341-3406 or contact us online. We are here to help you!
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