Choosing an HVAC system for your commercial space can be overwhelming. There are a wide variety of system sizes and types to accommodate the different sizes and types of commercial spaces. It takes time and a financial investment to install an entire system. So it’s important to know what factors to consider before you make your choice.

Ductwork or No Ductwork?

Most modern buildings have ductwork in them already. But maybe you’re working with an older space that doesn’t. Or you’re building new construction and want to know your options. There are a few systems that don’t use ductwork at all:

• Packaged terminal air conditioners (or packaged terminal heat pumps). These systems are designed to sit in a window or wall and are completely self-contained.
• Mini-splits. Available as heat pumps (that can provide both heating and cooling) or air conditioners. Mini-split systems are both cost and energy efficient.
• Boilers. Boilers use pipes to send heated water to radiators or through tubing for radiant floor systems. They vary by fuel type, heating method (hot water vs. steam), size, and efficiency.
• VRF systems (variable refrigerant flow). These systems are essentially large-capacity heat pumps with the capacity to service up to 12 indoor units. They can also simultaneously heat in one zone and cool in another. 

What Size is Your Space?

The wrong size HVAC system can seriously affect performance and efficiency of the system. There are a variety of systems that work better for different types and sizes of spaces.

Large buildings can involve large open spaces or require many smaller zones to be controlled individually. Different systems are designed for each:

• VRF systems. As stated above, each outdoor VRF unit can service 12 indoor units. These are good for a wide variety of spaces, including office buildings, large retail stores, and hotels.
• Packaged rooftop systems. These contain both heating and cooling system components within one unit. They handle large spaces well, but each outdoor unit services just one zone.
• CAV systems (constant air volume). These supply continuous air to a space and adjust the temperature of the supply air. They’re good for large open spaces without many windows.

Smaller commercial spaces have a variety of options available as well:

• Split systems. Single-split systems can handle restaurants and small offices or stores. Multi-split systems can provide zoning options for larger spaces as well.
• VAV systems (variable air volume). Best for spaces with multiple rooms, such as small office buildings. VAV systems vary the airflow to achieve a steady temperature.
• Packaged terminal systems. These are often used in hotels, apartments, and senior housing facilities.

How Will You Get Fresh Air?

Getting enough fresh outdoor air into a building is crucial for good indoor air quality. There are many ways to do this, and they vary in how effective, cost-efficient, and energy efficient they are. No one type will be right for every space:

• Natural ventilation. This involves creating a cross-breeze by opening doors and/or windows.
• Exhaust systems. Fans and vents draw air out of the building, and the lower pressure naturally draws outside air in.
• Supply systems. The opposite of exhaust systems — fans and vents force outside air into the building.
• Heat-Recovery Ventilators (HRV). These utilize a heat-exchanger to heat or cool the outside air before distributing it to the building. 
• Energy-Recovery Ventilators (ERV). Similar to HRVs, but ERVs also help manage air humidity levels.

How Efficient is the System?

A lot of different factors will affect the energy efficiency of a commercial HVAC system. The SEER (Seasonal Efficiency Energy Ratio) is a good place to start. But having the right size system, efficient ventilation, and conducting proper maintenance are critical as well. 

What About Indoor Air Quality?

Using HEPA filters will help improve the air quality in your commercial space. But there are also HVAC system add-ons that can add another layer of filtration. Electronic air filters capture pollutants with a high-voltage charge. Ultraviolet light systems kill mold, bacteria, and viruses.

Consider the Climate of the Area

The local climate plays a pivotal role in the selection of an HVAC system for a commercial building. It’s crucial to recognize that HVAC systems tailored for warmer climates may fall short in colder environments. For instance, although a geothermal exchange system may offer efficiency and cost savings in warm or temperate regions, it may struggle to meet heating demands in extremely cold areas, primarily because it relies on ground temperature as a heat source. Therefore, it’s essential to factor in your region’s climate when searching for the ideal HVAC solution for your commercial building.

How Can We Help?

An experienced local HVAC technician can help talk you through your options. If you’d like some help, call us! We can look at your space, talk through your needs and budget, and recommend the best system for you.