Choosing Commercial and Residential Air Conditioning Systems

One of the higher-end systems for residential and commercial buildings is the central HVAC. But strides in technology have made newer models much more energy-efficient than their older counterparts, making new units an excellent value due to the lower monthly operating costs.

The physical characteristics will determine the type of unit that is the most suitable for a structure. Each type has different capabilities and uses. There are several different basic styles from which to choose. 

Types of units

Standard air conditioning units come in three basic styles: a heat pump, a split system, or a split ductless system.

A heat pump is typical in areas where the heating and cooling needs are moderate. This system moves heat, so it pumps the warm air out of the building in the summer and hot air out of the house in winter.  Whether they collect the heat from the air, water, or the ground outside, they all work in this same manner. 

Newer heat pumps also dehumidify better than other types of air conditioners, so in areas where the humidity is high, and the weather is mild, a heat pump offers an energy-efficient solution.

A split system is one in which the condenser is outside the building, and the coil and fan are inside the building. Refrigerant-carrying pipes connect the two. A blower forces cold air through the ductwork to fill the building.

Ductwork

Ductwork funnels the cooled air from the a/c unit to the other areas of the building. The ductwork that was installed when a furnace was installed can often be used to deliver the cold air from the air conditioner. However, an air conditioner is much like a pumping heart; it requires a certain amount of pressure to operate efficiently.  If the ductwork is large, the air conditioner has to be of an adequate size to deliver cold air throughout the frame of the ductwork. If the unit is too small, it will operate continuously and still fail to cool the whole building. In homes where suitable ductwork already exists or is a viable option, a split system or heat pump can be used. 

Ductless systems

In facilities where the building can’t accommodate ductwork, a split ductless system may be the best solution. The split ductless system has an outside condenser. Tubing runs from the condenser to high-mounted blowers inside the building, which blow the cooled air throughout the building.

Commercial units

The sheer size of commercial buildings creates a massive power requirement. Utilizing rooftop space reduces noise and offers easy access for maintenance and repairs, as well as freeing indoor floor space for business endeavors. This system, which may encompass one or many units, requires a drainage system to manage the condensation a commercial building system will create.

The determining factors in air conditioning system selection for both a commercial or residential building are determined by the local climate, whether or not there is already a furnace and pre-existing ductwork or the viability of installing ductwork, and the local temperature and humidity levels.

The size of an air conditioning unit will largely depend on the extent of the area to be cooled and the existing ductwork. An experienced a/c contractor knows the formula for selecting the right size of unit for the area to be refrigerated and should be consulted for optimum climate management. Not only can a pro offer advice on the best unit for the building attributes, but he can also help the owner or manager create solutions for difficult climate control situations.