Even though most AC systems work similarly but there is a big variance in requirements for home and office settings. A commercial air conditioning (AC) system is a superior, more robust HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system designed to cool and ventilate large spaces, such as offices, stores, and factories. Unlike home AC units, which cater to smaller residential areas, commercial AC systems are designed for continuous operation and to handle larger temperature fluctuations caused by various factors, such as machinery and heat loads.
This article outlines the differences between commercial and home HVAC systems. Understanding design and maintenance helps you choose the best solution for your space.
What is a Commercial Air Conditioning (AC) System?
Commercial air conditioning, or commercial HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), is vital for climate control of non-residential buildings. These systems are designed for larger spaces like offices, retail shops, factories, and hospitals because of their adaptability for various work environments. Unlike residential HVAC systems for smaller areas, commercial units efficiently cool large spaces with multiple rooms.
Keeping public and business spaces comfortable and productive, these systems run long and cover large areas, controlling temperature, improving air quality, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Different Types of Commercial Air Conditioners
Commercial air conditioners are designed specifically to fit into workplaces. Let’s explore some types of commercial ACs:
Ceiling Suspended Systems
Ceiling suspended systems are one of the best commercial air conditioning systems, used in spaces with restricted wall and ground space. These units are similar to ceiling cassettes, but they cannot be integrated seamlessly with the ceiling and are instead installed below the ceiling. They provide a cool breeze horizontally, making them ideal for expansive spaces.
Suspended units, such as the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries FDE, can effectively serve large areas. This makes them excellent options for open-plan offices and auditoriums.
VRF Systems
As one of the complex air conditioners, VRF Systems are designed to enable simultaneous temperature regulation across multiple rooms and units. These systems also allow you to add any air conditioning system to the same VRF unit at any time. This makes them flexible options for commercial industries.
These units feature one outdoor unit attached to multiple indoor units. Refrigerant flow is tailored to meet the heating or cooling needs of every room, allowing different temperatures to be maintained in separate rooms at the same time.
Ceiling Cassettes
The ceiling cassette system is one of the indoor air conditioner that is fitted into the ceiling. It offers a gentle and space-saving solution for both cooling and heating your environment. Ceiling cassette units require integration within a broader commercial HVAC system to function effectively.
As one of the best types of commercial units, this unit seamlessly integrates with exterior systems, like those in a mini-split or VRF system. This ensures that the ceiling cassette has all the necessary refrigerant and power to operate smoothly.
Ducted Air Conditioning Systems
Ideal for thermoregulation in various indoor environments, these units use hidden ducts to transfer warm or cool air through vents. However, ducted air conditioning units typically need only one indoor unit, even in multiple rooms. You can also hide the indoor unit in restricted areas, like a loft or basement.
Ducted air conditioning units, such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries FDUM, effectively serve large spaces like emporiums and guesthouses.
Multi-Split Systems
Multi-split systems are made of an outdoor unit attached to multiple indoor units. Although they seem similar to VRF systems, they differ in capability and operations.
Multi-split systems send refrigerant to each indoor unit, helping to regulate room temperatures. However, they are not as efficient as Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems. On the positive side, multi-split systems usually cost less and are easier to install, making them a good choice for intermediate commercial areas.
Chilled Water Systems
Chilled water air conditioning systems use water to regulate temperature, instead of relying on air directly. These units require a consistent water source but operate quietly and efficiently. Like ducted air conditioning units, their outdoor units can be concealed, allowing them to be placed in unused areas of the building or storage. These units are typically used in workshops and data centres where constant water sources are available.
What Distinguishes Commercial AC from Residential AC Units?
Unlike home AC units, commercial AC systems are designed for constant use and can handle larger temperature variations because of factors such as use of machinery and heat in larger spaces.
Size & Capacity
Commercial AC: These systems are typically larger, with greater cooling capacities, to handle expansive spaces and potentially multiple rooms.
Home AC: Home units are designed for smaller housing areas and are often portable or split systems.
Operation & Duration
Commercial AC: These units operate continuously, often for extended hours to fulfil business needs, and might require zoning to control temperatures in different areas.
Home AC: These air conditioners operate more intermittently, often on a schedule or as required.
Complexity & Components
Commercial AC: These systems typically involve more complex ductwork, zoning, and advanced controls to precisely manage temperature.
Home AC: They are simpler systems, featuring reduced ductwork and more straightforward controls.
Maintenance & Compliance
Commercial AC: Commercial air conditioners are subject to specific maintenance and inspection requirements under the UK government regulations, particularly for systems exceeding 12 kW.
Home AC: The maintenance of these units is typically linked to the manufacturer's warranty and may not have specific legal requirements.
Placement & Aesthetics
Commercial AC: These units are typically installed on rooftops or in secure locations, taking into account safety and space considerations, and may feature exposed ductwork for an industrial look.
Home AC: These units are typically placed on walls or hidden in ceilings for aesthetic purposes.
Energy Efficiency & Cost
Commercial AC: Commercial units are designed for energy efficiency and often feature advanced components, such as variable-speed compressors, to reduced energy usage.
Home AC: Home air conditioners prioritise comfort and efficiency, offering a range of models from basic to high-end. However, these units may not be as efficient as commercial systems because of the nature of their applications.
In Need of an Air Conditioning Unit? Contact Aircare Appliances
At Aircare Appliances, we stock a wide range of commercial air conditioning units that we deliver and install across the UK. Our high-quality systems cater to the diverse needs of staff and employees. With extensive experience and dedication to delivering energy efficient unites, our team assures that your space remains comfy throughout the year.
If you have any questions or would like to buy air conditioning units for your diverse spaces, please drop us a message. Our team is keen to assist you with any inquiries you may have.