With temperature becoming increasingly volatile and extreme, temperature regulating systems like a commercial AC unit has become a necessity. These are the most common energy-intensive systems used by commercial spaces.
HVAC systems account for 50% of energy consumption in commercial properties, and maintaining these systems incurs loads of resources and capital. Therefore, businesses must invest efforts to reduce their energy consumption and maintenance costs.
This should include a holistic approach towards reducing electricity demand, optimizing existing systems, and upgrading to energy-efficient systems.
Different Types Of Air Conditioning System
A Commercial AC unit has a variety of different features to accommodate the diverse needs of the property. This includes cooling and heating capacity along with various layouts and setups.
There are three kinds of commercial air conditioning systems – Single split, Multi-split, and VRV/VRF systems. Although all three systems boast identical technology and installation process, each has a different utility and application.
Single Split System
Single Split Systems are very popular among small businesses due to their versatile application and energy efficiency. A single split system can only be used in individual rooms and is ideal for shops, small offices, server rooms, and cafes.
Multi-Split System
A Multi-split System functions in the same manner as a single split system. However, it can be connected to 9 indoor units and a single outdoor unit. These systems are ideal for offices, shops, surgery rooms, and restaurants.
Unlike single split systems, multi-split systems are highly complex and need more pipework. Furthermore, the installation process of this system is rather expensive and time-consuming.
VRV Or VRF System
VRV/VRF systems are ideal for medium to large commercial properties such as mixed-use buildings, retail spaces, hotels, and larger offices. These systems are extremely easy to control, reliable, and efficient.
Additionally, the installation process of this system is rather quick and requires minimal disruption.
How To Improve Energy Efficiency Of Your Air Conditioning
Irrespective of the AC system used by commercial buildings, it’s important to reduce energy consumption to push for greater sustainability. Furthermore, reducing energy consumption, demand and costs allow you to enjoy a NABERS rating adding to the business reputation.
Change HVAC Filters Regularly
Dirty HVAC filters lead to poor airflow, quality, and high energy consumption and maintenance costs. Changing the HVAC filters quarterly will help lower your energy costs by 10% and better air quality.
Programmable Thermostats
Changing the temperature throughout the day owing to different needs puts a lot of burden on the HVAC system. However, installing programming thermostats eliminates this burden of temperature customization.
Quality Maintenance
Quality maintenance removes the variable of ‘wasted energy’ due to faulty or aging performance of the HVAC system.
Seal The Ducts Properly
Sealing your cooling ducts properly increases the efficiency of your HVAC systems by a whopping 20%. You can use foil tape, aeroseal, or mastic to seal the ducts properly.
Improve The HVAC system Efficiency Through Upgrades Or Replacement
In case your HVAC system is more than ten years old, you must consider replacing them with upgraded products. However, make sure that your new system is energy-effective; otherwise, it won’t reduce your energy cost or consumption.
A Qualified Contractor
Working with a qualified contractor will allow you to make the most of your upgrade, replace and repair work.
Reducing the energy waste of your HVAC system is a must as it substantially reduces your operational costs. Most of the steps pursued to improve sustainability by the managers and business owners reap little to no results.
However, those mentioned above are very straightforward to follow and offer a greater return on investment.