HVAC systems are vital for commercial properties like malls, offices, and hospitals. Without one that works properly, many people would be uncomfortable. Clients would be hesitant about visiting again, and staff would be unable to perform at their best. As a result, business would be negatively affected.

Before choosing a commercial HVAC for your facility, here are a few things you need to know first:

The Difference Between Residential and Commercial HVAC

Besides its bigger size, a commercial HVAC is more complex than a residential one. Because the structure of commercial properties varies, HVAC companies don’t sell their products in one stand-alone unit or even as a bundle of packages. Instead, commercial HVAC is primarily modular, where you can upsize and multiply some parts to meet the requirements of your building.

You’ll still need all the essential parts of a residential HVAC system, such as compressors, coils, and fans. However, you may need more than one of each, and they’ll be specially designed to work with the high volume of airflow required in a commercial setting. In addition, your ductwork will be larger and more complex, and your thermostats will be more sophisticated to allow for greater control over temperature.

Overall, a commercial HVAC system is a significant investment. But when done right, it can provide years of comfortable indoor temperatures for your employees and customers.

While most residential ACs may last up to 10 years, commercial systems can endure for up to 10-15 years. But, of course, it all depends on many factors, such as brand durability, proper installation, treatment, and maintenance.

Types of Commercial HVAC

Although the purposes are the same, the mechanism of generating cooling and heating may vary. The various systems allow companies to choose one that is most suitable for their facilities. Here are some of the most common types of commercial HVAC systems.

Single-Split System

One outdoor unit connects to one indoor unit. Each bundle works for one room of a specific size. Larger rooms can use multiple sets of single-split ACs.

It is highly versatile and suitable for small offices or cafes. The drawback of the system is that the outdoor units will take up a lot of space.

Multi-Split System

One outdoor unit connects to multiple indoor units, allowing you to maximize your outdoor spaces. You can always add the indoor units later. However, if the outdoor unit breaks, then the whole building will not be able to get any cooling and heating. That is unless you install more than one set of systems.

VRV or VRF Heat Pump

Variable Refrigerant Volume or Variable Refrigerant Flow is another system that can provide heating and cooling for the whole building. However, it can only do either one at a time. This commercial HVAC system is best for a large facility with the exact air temperature needs in all its rooms.

VRV or VRF Heat Recovery

Like the VRV or VRF heat pump, the heat recovery systems can heat and cool an entire building. Even better, the system can cool one room while warming up the other rooms simultaneously. This system applies to facilities containing many rooms with different necessities.

Commercial HVAC is complex and expensive. More thoughtful consideration is essential when choosing and installing the system. The slightest error can affect the business significantly, and no company wants that. If you plan to install an HVAC system in your commercial property, get a licensed professional to execute the task.