Here are 5 types of Commercial Air Conditioning systems with features, costs, and usability. Learn about industrial and commercial HVAC systems.
What is Commercial Air Conditioning?
From small to big commercial settings, commercial air conditioning is utilized to chill, heat, and dehumidify the air. Commercial air conditioning units can be used in offices, shops, cafes, restaurants, schools, leisure centers, gyms, and any other sort of commercial property. In order to maintain a comfortable temperature and air quality for customers and/or employees in the summer and winter.
These commercial systems work on the HVAC system working principle that is by drawing air from within a room and turning it hot or cool. Depending on what temperature we want to have. It is the same air that is again recycled back into space in order to maintain the temperature.
Air conditioning systems are also known as AC. There are so many various systems in the market with varied heating and cooling capacities and settings. This is why it’s critical to hire a professional commercial air conditioning company to help you choose the best system for your business and property. Kitchen Services is one of the most affordable HVACR service in Los Angeles and around.
Types of Commercial Air Conditioning Systems
Most commercial areas, from small stores and cafés to big offices and public places, have commercial air conditioners. In order to meet the diverse needs of today’s world, Air conditioning systems come in a variety of heating and cooling capacities. Along with varied configurations and layouts. The following are the most common types of commercial air conditioning systems:
- Central Air Conditioning
- Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioner
- Multi Split Air Conditioner
- VRF and VRV
- Chillers
Types of Industrial Air Conditioning Systems
Industrial facilities, from manufacturing plants to large warehouses, require robust and efficient air conditioning systems to manage extreme temperature conditions and high cooling loads. Industrial air conditioning systems come in various configurations to suit specific cooling needs and operational demands. Here are the most common types of industrial air conditioning systems:
- Central Air Conditioning: A comprehensive system providing centralized cooling through an extensive network of ducts and air handling units.
- Packaged Air Conditioning Systems: All-in-one units that house the compressor, condenser, and evaporator in a single cabinet, ideal for large spaces.
- Chillers: Large-scale systems that use chilled water to cool air, often used in conjunction with air handling units for extensive cooling requirements.
- Cooling Towers: Essential for removing heat from industrial processes, cooling towers work in tandem with chillers to dissipate excess heat.
- Industrial Ductless Systems: Flexible units that provide targeted cooling without the need for ductwork, suitable for specific areas or zones within a facility.
Difference between Commercial and Industrial Air Conditioning
Industrial air conditioning systems are the ones used in huge retail shops, warehouses, or malls. However, when talking about commercial air conditioning, the overall focus is on restaurants, bakeries, grocery shops, offices, etc.
Requirements of Industrial Air-Conditioning: There is a certain set of features that an industrial air conditioning must have. That includes:
- Air humidification
- Air dehumidification
- Heating of air/water
- Cooling of air/water
- Ventilation
- Air filtering
- Making use of indoor/outdoor air
Routine air conditioning maintenance and repair is important for commercial air conditioning systems.
Central Air Conditioning
It is with the help of ductwork that the Central Air Conditioning system moves air throughout your space. It combines the supply air ducts that spread conditioned air throughout the area with return air ducts. That is responsible to bring the conditioned air back to the system.
This type of commercial air conditioner unit not only makes the air cool, in fact, it also removes some part of the moisture present. This makes the area comfortable.
A good quality commercial central air conditioning would cost you around $1500 to $2500. Although central air conditioners are an ideal fit for residential settings. Smaller commercial settings like a tiny café, a small eatery, etc. can also have this one.
Ductless, Mini-Split Air Conditioner
In its most basic form, a ductless mini-split system consists of one outside unit and one indoor unit connected by refrigerant tubing and electrical cabling. The interior unit, which is usually wall-mounted, provides heated or cooled air directly into the living space, eliminating the need for ductwork. A single-zone system is meant to give heating and cooling comfort to a single area. Hence, this one is also perfect for a small enclosed kind of setting.
The cost for a single-zone ductless mini-split air-conditioner would range from $3000 to $7000. And for a dual-zone system, it would be around $5500 to $9000.
Multi-Split System Air Conditioning
Multi-split systems operate similarly to single-split systems, except they allow you to connect multiple interior units to a single outside unit. Restaurants, businesses, and offices frequently employ this approach. The fewer outside units you require, the less room they will take up and the more appealing they will be to the eye. This can also be used for commercial air conditioning units.
Depending upon the system, the cost for multi-split air conditioning would vary from $3900 to $4900.
VRF or VRV
VRF (variable refrigerant flow) serves as an ideal HVAC solution for medium to big applications, such as hotels, workplaces, and retail stores.
Heat pumps and heat recovery are used in VRF and VRV systems. Heat pump systems can heat or cool a building at any moment, making them perfect for open floor plans. Heat recovery systems may deliver simultaneous heating and cooling to multiple areas at a time. This makes them a good choice for a structure with multiple rooms.
Commercial HVAC systems that are efficient collect waste heat from the building and use it to heat water and other areas. You may cool one room while heating another with the heat recovery system.
Based on the square foot of the conditioned area, the cost for VRF is around 15% higher than your traditional commercial ducted air conditioning.
Chillers
For commercial settings, chillers are also widely used. There are two types of vapor compression chillers available in the market.
1. Air-Cooler Chiller: This kind of chiller takes the heat out into the atmosphere that is produced by the heat exchanger. The cost for an Air-cooler chiller is around $350 to $1000 per ton, depending on its size.
2. Water-Cooler Chiller: A cooling tower chills water refrigerant in a water-cooled chiller. The cost for a water-cooler chiller is $350-$450 per ton. The price only increases from here depending upon the capacity, model, and size.
Absorption chillers, which are a type of water-cooled chiller, use extremely little electricity. It’s used in the central air conditioning systems of mid- to-large-sized buildings as a heat source refrigeration system.
The purchasing cost of a brand new commercial air conditioner and then its installation cost becomes very difficult to manage. That is why people often look for second-hand commercial air conditioning units. Some businesses opt for second-hand as this reduces their purchasing cost and they don’t have to go out of their budget.
Types of HVAC Systems in Hotels
With so many options to choose from, it becomes difficult to see which type of AC is best for your commercial use. Sometimes, central air conditioning is preferred in hotels and sometimes it’s thermal, so people often get confused.
When it comes to hotels, they usually have three preferred types of HVAC systems.
- Packaged terminal air conditioners (PTACs): PTAC is a unit that you have seen against the wall behind a window in hotel rooms. These self-contained units do not make use of outside air, instead they utilize the air present inside the room only.
- Vertical Terminal Air Conditioners (VTAC): Smaller, wall-mounted air conditioning units. VTAC can heat and cool a large number of rooms. Since it consumes air from the bottom and releases it through a duct on top in order to heat or cool the area.
That is why they are installed in a corner setting. They employ the same cooling and heating methods as PTAC systems.
- Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) (mentioned above)
Types of Commercial Kitchen Cooling Solutions
A food-based business’s nerve center is its commercial kitchen. Any issues in the kitchen can quickly spiral out of hand, causing harm to the employees, customers, and even the company. Not only does a well-run kitchen necessitate a dedicated crew, but it also necessitates a well-designed HVAC system.
If the kitchen lacks an appropriate make-up air unit, it can make working in the kitchen riskier and have a cascade effect on everyone. Whoever is exposed, including affecting customers’ dining experiences and damaging the business. Hence, it is very important to come up with commercial kitchen cooling solutions. Some of these solutions are:
- An ideal HVAC system
- Ventilation System
- Evaporative Cooling Strategies
- Making use of Fans
Commercial HVAC System Components
All of the components that together make up the HVAC system are equally important. The system is most likely to collapse even if one of its parts is not functioning. Some of the most significant HVAC components are:
- Condenser Systems
- Thermostat
- Heat Exchanger
- Air compressor
- Air handler
- Evaporator Coils
Large Commercial Air Conditioning Unit
Different air conditioning systems are used for different types of buildings. However, when it comes to large commercial air conditioning units, one has to mention Daikin, Ingersoll Rand, and Johnson Controls as the largest HVAC manufacturers.
Apart from the large commercial ac units used in commercial settings, they offer portable commercial air conditioning units which are now gaining popularity. These 5 ton, 7.5 ton, or even 10 ton portable units are moveable and can be used for commercial settings. For example, meeting rooms, hospital waiting areas, lobby, etc.
When it comes to commercial air conditioning installation and commercial air conditioning repair in Los Angeles, Kitchen Services provides quick and efficient services of all sorts.
Commercial Air Conditioner Brands
Well, the first Air Conditioner was in fact built so that it could control humidity and moisture at a printing plant Since the 1950’s AC has changed from being a lifestyle preference to a crucial requisite in any place whether it is a residential or any public space. There are many top Air Conditioner companies in and around the world and choosing the best AC can be hectic.
This article will narrow down your wish list about some of the best Air Conditioner brands
Panasonic
The Panasonic Corporation was previously known as the Matsushita electric industrial Co Ltd. It is a deep-rooted Japan MNC and its headquarter is at Kadoma, Osaka is actually a leading electronic company for air conditioning systems and manufacturers.
Some of the differentiating features of the Panasonic AC are below.
- Intellicomfort technology
- 3D Cool Technology
- Dual fan Compressor Technology
- 4 in 1 filtration
- Copper Condenser
- Advanced MPFI and Turbo Cool Technology
- Intelligence Inverter Compressor
- Voltage Compensation Logic
All these features have in actual helped them with all of the successful sales of their air conditioners. This company actually started from a bulb manufacturing unit and now it has become one of the electronic industry giants that also focuses on AC’s too without any doubt. They have many new features and constant improvements that make them compete with all the other top companies in the market have definitely paid off.
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi is a company in the market that is defined by comfortability, coolness, and quietness; this is the reason that it is considered as one of the best companies in the whole wide world. It also has an option that lets you connect your smartphone to your Mitsubishi air conditioner and gives you the freedom to be in total control of the entire unit by using your Wi-Fi connection. Mitsubishi has also adopted the i-Save Mode which lets you save on energy by reducing power consumption.
- Mitsubishi is one of the go-to companies for a lot of different things. The major one is the air conditioning units
- This Japanese powerhouse brand sells close to perfect AC units, in particular, their ductless air conditioning units are considered the best.
- They are also considered as some of the most reliable and efficient systems out now.
- However, Mitsubishi is one of the pricier options.
- It is the best option if your business is small, but your area is very hot or has poor air circulation.
- You can install these systems in a larger office with a lot of rooms it will help you with your electricity budget.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool is basically an American corporation headquartered located in Benton charter township, Michigan United States and it has a legacy of 100 years and this brand is trusted for producing great quality products.
Some of the unique features in them are
- 6th sense Intellicomfort
- 3D Cool Technology
- Dual fan compressor Technology
- 4 in 1 filtration with anion shield
- Smart diagnosis
This top brand Whirlpool has established trust among its consumer for the brand to be one of the best Air Conditioner companies that are known for their quality product as well as customer services. It is considered as one of the well-reputed companies and it also has experience of hundreds of years it brings out new innovations to exert their power in the industry offering some amazing features focusing exclusively on households.
Lucky Goldstar (LG)
Well, this well-known brand Established Goldstar, LG Electronics Inc is basically a South Korean electronics manufacturing MNC from Yeouido-dong, Seoul. Lucky Goldstar is one of the trusted brands that is mostly known for the long life of all of its products as well as their excellent customer service.
Some basic features which distinguish them from the other best Air Conditioner brands are as follows.
- Monsoon comfort to combat high humidity
- Double protection filter that helps in killing all of the harmful bacteria and fungi
- Modern mosquito away Technology
- Question black protection with auto clean functionality.
These are some of the basic reasons for their successful growth and the increasing demand for their air conditioners. LG has always taken the top position in the industry for a long period of time, and it still remains. All their customers have trusted this brand for its unique design and affordable price and good quality products, basically, it is one of a good value for their money brand.
Daikin
Daikin’s main purpose is to bring comfort to the doorstep of your home, office, and any meet points through with a controlled climate. They are one of the best air conditioning specialists in Australia and in fact for the whole world. As we know about the harsh and extreme weather of Australia has enabled Daikin to come up with the most economical but modest air conditioning designs using their technological savvy.
Established initially as Osaka Kinzoku Kogyosho, Daikin is the most leading AC brand in the world with net sales of over $17 Billion, having over 100 production units in the whole world, the perks and features of the products have helped them to climb the Global corporate ladder in the top position.
Some of the basic features of this brand include
- Eco-friendly products
- Coanda flow
- Intelligent eyes
- Streamer discharge Technology
- Inverter Technology
- Quiet operation
- All these differentiate them from the other popular ACs.
Well, actually Daikin has designed efficient, reliable, pocket-friendly, and high-quality air conditioners. Daikin has established less power consumption air conditioners that is fitted with inverters which will help to adjust and regulate the climate. Moreover to its excellence, their air conditioners are designed in such a way that they are quiet and long-lasting. This company basically uses the aesthetic design that has inbuilt Wi-Fi connectivity which can enable its users to operate it from within as well as the outside of the building.
Samsung
Who is not well aware of the name of this top brand? Samsung is considered one of the most prominent groups in the electronic industry and it is well known for its quality, variety, and price range as they have come up with the latest ideas and inventions so that they can satisfy all their customer needs.
Even though they do not have a stable market in the production of air conditioners, their constant new inventions have enormously helped them to grab the position as one of the top air conditioners companies.
Its enhanced stabilizer-free plus operation prevents voltage fluctuations without compromising on safety and comfort.
This company produces a Convertible Cooling Air Conditioner which allows to use it on different capacities as per your requirements. This AC will give you a refreshing inner look to any of your rooms.
They were the first company to introduce a wind-free triangular design and many other features like
- HD filters
- Advanced BIO-sleep mode
- Dehumidification mode
- Duration and MultiJet Technology
- Stabilizer free operation
- Pole inverter
- S-UTR Compressor
- Power Boost Technology
- Smart Control and Smart Installation
As important as product quality, excellent after-sales service is also very important. Because every good quality product requires excellent quality of service to work effectively and to increase its life span. For installing a new device or for any type of maintenance, On-Site Support from the manufacturer or dealer always plays a very important role for hassle-free use of that device that Samsung offers.
Also Read: Air Conditioner Installation Guide
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the various types of commercial air conditioning systems is essential for businesses looking to maintain a comfortable and efficient environment. From split systems to packaged units, each type offers unique benefits tailored to different needs and building sizes. When selecting a system, factors such as energy efficiency, installation costs, and maintenance requirements should be carefully considered. Ultimately, investing in a large HVAC AC system that meets the specific demands of your commercial space can lead to improved air quality, enhanced comfort, and reduced operational costs.
FAQs (Commercial Air Conditioning)
What type of air conditioner is most efficient for restaurants?
Wall-mounted split systems are the most prevalent type of air conditioning system in restaurants, and they’re also the most cost-effective because they only require drilling holes for the cable and attaching the unit.
What is the principle of HVAC?
Thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics are principles on which an HVAC system operates. All of these elements are used in various HVAC components. IAQ Indoor air quality refers to the air quality inside a building or structure as it relates to the health and safety of its occupants or the items/goods stored there.
Which AC is used in hotels?
The most commonly used AC units in hotels are packaged terminal air conditioners (PTAC).
What is the central air system?
This is a system where air cools from the central location of the space and is spread across to and from the rooms with the help of ducts and fans.
How do air conditioning work in hotels?
PTAC are units that you have seen against the wall behind a window in hotel rooms. These self-contained units do not make use of outside air, instead, they utilize the air present inside the room only. That is how air conditioning works in hotels.
What is the average life of a central air conditioning system?
If taken proper care of, your central air conditioning system can last upto 15 up to 20 years.
What does PTAC mean?
PTAC stands for Packaged terminal air conditioners.
Is PTAC central air?
No PTAC isn’t a central air unit. It is a standalone unit that is installed through a wall.
Can you have air conditioning in a commercial kitchen?
Yes, it is okay to have air conditioning in a commercial kitchen. This will keep the place cool and comfortable to work in.
How do restaurant kitchens stay cool?
Restaurant kitchens stay cool by using ventilation systems, evaporative fans, or even an HVAC system in order to stay cool.
How often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced?
For most businesses, air conditioners should be serviced at least every 12 months. However, you may need more regular servicing and cleaning depending on your business’s operating environment.
How much is a commercial air conditioning unit?
The average cost of a new HVAC system can cost anywhere between $6,000 and $12,000 for a 1,000 sq ft. The building, but installation will be necessary. Depending on the type of HVAC system installed, the size of the unit, ductwork maintenance and climate, prices can vary.
Which type of ac is best for commercial use?
VRF air conditioning units are best suited to large commercial spaces, and are easy to control, energy-efficient, and reliable. They can also be installed with minimal disruption to your business
