When your employees are comfortable and satisfied with their work environment, they are more productive, which is why choosing the right air conditioning system for your business is crucial. There are many type of air condition systems from which to choose, so finding the right one may prove difficult. If you are unsure which system is best for you and your employees, check out these three popular options.
Packaged System
Packaged air conditioning relies on a large outdoor unit, which houses all the components used to cool the air. The cooled air is then sent throughout the building via ductwork. The advantage of this type of system is its effectiveness. It quickly cools large buildings, making it great if you have a larger business. However, leaks in the ductwork can allow a lot of cooled air to escape. Heat gain may also occur if the ducts aren't well insulated. For this reason, you may need to occasionally have the ducts examined and repaired to keep the system efficient.
Split System
Split systems are also effective, and they are more efficient than forced-air systems because they don't rely on ducts. Split systems also have outdoor units, but they don't contain all the components. The condenser coil and the compressor are stored in the outdoor unit, but the cooling coil, supply fan and expansion device are stored in interior units. These interior units blow the cold air, so you may need to install multiple units throughout the company. A split system may be best if you want a packaged system, but don't have the existing ductwork.
Chilled Water System
Similar to a split system, a chilled water system relies on one exterior unit and multiple interior air handlers, which blow the cooled air. However, while a split system turns gas into liquid, a chilled water system only uses water or a mixture of water and an anti-freezing solution. Pipes transport the cooled water to the indoor units, which cool the cooling coils to blow cold air. The warmed water is then returned to be cooled and recycled through the system.
Heat Pump
If you want an energy-efficient option, consider a heat pump. A heat pump alone can both cool and heat your business. However, they aren't as effective as forced-air systems, making them better for mild climates. If you do see hot summers or cold winters, you can install a backup system to handle the heavy load of extremely hot or cold days. A heat pump works by moving hot and cold air. For example, during the summer, the system pulls cooled air from outside and pumps it inside the building. It also removes hot air from inside the building. Heat pumps can also be geothermal, meaning they pull hot or cold air from the ground. These systems are more expensive but also more effective.
Radiant System
Radiant cooling is an option, especially if you are already considering radiant heating for your business. As with radiant heating, radiant cooling uses water-filled tubes or electric coils, which are installed under the flooring. However, radiant cooling isn't as effective as radiant heating because, while hot air naturally rises to create an even temperature, cold air naturally falls. For this reason, you may also need a backup air-cooling system to help circulate and remove the hot air.
Keeping your business cool helps keep your employees and customers comfortable. With so many different options, finding the right one can be difficult, but with the help of a skilled, trained HVAC specialist, you are sure to pick the right one for your business. For more information about commercial heating and cooling, contact a HVAC technician who offers commercial air conditioning services in your area today.
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