HVAC for Commercial Buildings: A Guide to HVAC Systems for Large Commercial Buildings – Commercial businesses often require larger spaces to accommodate their operations as they grow. However, with larger spaces often come new challenges, especially regarding heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. HVAC systems for commercial buildings are more complex than those found in homes and require specialized knowledge and expertise to design, install, and maintain.

There are critical considerations for commercial building HVAC systems, including types of systems, energy efficiency, maintenance, and choosing the right contractor.

TYPES OF HVAC SYSTEMS FOR COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS IN BOZEMAN, MT

There are several types of HVAC systems for commercial buildings, each with advantages and disadvantages. The type of system you choose will depend on various factors, including the size of your building, your budget, and your energy efficiency goals.

ROOFTOP UNIT

Rooftop units are one of the most common HVAC systems, and as the name suggests, these units are installed on the roof and designed to provide heating and cooling for the entire building. They are typically made up of a compressor, a condenser, and an air handler, connected to ductwork that distributes air throughout the building.

One advantage of rooftop units is that they are relatively easy to install and maintain. They are also modular, meaning additional units can be added as a building grows or new tenants move in. However, rooftop units are not the most energy-efficient option and can be noisy and unsightly.

SINGLE-SPLIT SYSTEM

A single-split HVAC system has one compressor, an evaporator coil, a furnace, and a refrigerant. Because they heat and cool individual rooms, single split systems are effective air conditioning solutions for smaller commercial buildings and server rooms. They ar not designed for larger buildings with multiple rooms.

MULTI-SPLIT SYSTEM

A multi-split system operates similarly to a single one, except that multiple indoor units hook up to a single outdoor unit. These are best for large commercial properties and not for small commercial spaces.

VARIABLE REFRIGERANT FLOW (VRF)

VRF (variable refrigerant flow), or VRV (variable refrigerant volume), refers to refrigerant systems as a heating and cooling medium. VRF systems move refrigerants to the zone within a building that needs to be heated or cooled and are highly effective and energy-efficient. VRF systems are suitable in various commercial spaces, including mixed-use facilities. However, they are not meant for larger indoor assembly spaces.

CONSTANT AIR VOLUME (CAV)

CAVs provide constant airflow and regulate the building’s climate by adjusting the air supply temperature. CAVs work best in spaces with large open areas and few windows, such as an exhibition hall. Buildings with multiple heating and cooling zones are not optimal for CAVs.

CHILLED WATER SYSTEM

This type of HVAC system uses water as a cooling medium and is typically used in larger commercial buildings, such as office buildings or hospitals, and is designed to provide cooling to multiple building areas at once.

Chilled water systems consist of a chiller (which cools the water), a pump (which circulates the water through the system), and a series of air handlers (which distribute the cooled air throughout the building).

One advantage of chilled water systems is that they are very energy-efficient, especially compared to rooftop units. They are also very flexible, as they can be configured to provide cooling to specific areas of a building. However, chilled water systems can be expensive to install and maintain and require high technical expertise.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY CONSIDERATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL HVAC SYSTEMS

Energy efficiency is a primary concern for commercial building owners and tenants, as HVAC systems can account for a significant portion of a building’s energy consumption. Improving the energy efficiency of your HVAC system can help reduce your energy bills and improve the comfort of your building’s occupants.

Here are some energy efficiency considerations to consider when selecting an HVAC system for your commercial building:

HIGH-EFFICIENCY EQUIPMENT

Investing in high-efficiency HVAC equipment, such as variable-speed air handlers or high-efficiency chillers, can help reduce energy consumption and improve comfort levels.

BUILDING AUTOMATION

Installing a building automation system (BAS) can help optimize your HVAC system’s performance by allowing you to monitor and control your system’s operation remotely. A BAS can also help identify areas of inefficiency and provide data to help you make informed decisions about system upgrades and maintenance.

DUCT SEALING AND INSULATION

Leaky or uninsulated ductwork can result in significant energy losses, as conditioned air can escape before reaching its intended destination. Sealing and insulating ductwork can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and reduce energy consumption.

MAINTENANCE AND TUNE-UPS

Regular maintenance and tune-ups are essential to ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently. Simple tasks like cleaning filters and checking refrigerant levels can go a long way toward improving energy efficiency and extending the life of your system.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HVAC CONTRACTOR IN BOZEMAN, MT

Selecting the right HVAC contractor is crucial for ensuring your commercial building’s HVAC system is installed correctly and well-maintained.

What should you look for in an HVAC contractor?

COMMERCIAL HVAC EXPERIENCE

Look for an HVAC contractor with experience working on commercial buildings similar to yours. Commercial HVAC systems are more complex than residential systems and require specialized knowledge and expertise.

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

Ensure your HVAC contractor is licensed and certified to work in your state. Look for certifications from organizations like the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), North American Technician Excellence® (NATE), or the Building Performance Institute (BPI).

REFERENCES AND REVIEWS

Check references and read online reviews to understand the contractor’s reputation and track record. Look for a contractor with a proven record of delivering quality work on time and within budget.

MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE AGREEMENTS

Choose a contractor that offers maintenance and service agreements to help ensure your HVAC system is properly maintained and serviced over the system’s lifespan.

THE TAKEAWAY 

Selecting the right HVAC system for your commercial building is an important decision that can have long-lasting impacts on your building’s energy consumption, comfort levels, and maintenance requirements.

Whether you choose a rooftop unit, a split system, or a chilled water system, it’s essential to consider energy efficiency and choose a contractor with the experience and expertise to design, install, and maintain your system correctly. Considering these factors, you can ensure that your commercial building’s HVAC system will operate efficiently and effectively for years.

WHY YOU NEED COMFORT SYSTEMS OF MONTANA?

Comfort Systems of Montana has been a heating and cooling company providing Commercial HVAC Installation and repair services since 1999. As a Veteran-and family-owned business, we take pride in our skilled NATE-certified technicians with the knowledge and experience to diagnose and solve any furnace issue. Our professional team is dedicated to providing the highest quality work to ensure your satisfaction.

We are a Factory-Authorized Carrier Dealer that services all HVAC equipment make and models. By signing up for our Comfort Club Membership (maintenance plan), you’ll receive a thorough inspection and cleaning of your HVAC system, including a comprehensive check of every component to ensure everything functions properly. If we discover any issues, we’ll recommend a repair or replacement. As a member, you’ll also receive a 15% discount on labor, parts, and more.

For businesses in the Big Sky, Bozeman, Livingston, Belgrade, West Yellowstone, or surrounding areas, Comfort Systems of Montana is a reliable HVAC company you can count on for all your heating and cooling needs. Schedule an appointment today!