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Is your business looking for a Commercial HVAC professional in the Billings and surrounding area? With most HVAC systems lasting well up to 15 years, a commercial unit can be some of the best money spent. However, hiring the wrong contractor can leave your business with an ineffective and costly expense.
It is better, in the long run, to do diligent research and hire the best HVAC specialist in your area. A licensed professional you trust will help you to understand the unit you are purchasing and how to maximize its efficiency. This service guide by Brink Inc. will go through our process for helping customers in Montana, Wyoming, and South Dakota get the best commercial AC service possible.
HVAC systems are one of the most important components of a commercial building. They are responsible for regulating the temperature and air quality and ensuring the comfort of occupants. There are a variety of HVAC systems available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. When selecting an HVAC system for a commercial building, it is important to consider the size of the space, the climate, and how much an HVAC system costs.
Utilizing a 'split' between indoor and outdoor components is what makes the Split System the most popular type of central air system in the US. A Split System is normally connected to a building's ductwork. A metal cabinet containing the compressor and condenser coil (the refrigeration system) sits alongside or on the rooftop of the building. The Air Handler, which holds the blower and evaporator coil is inside helping to move cold air throughout the building. Great for small buildings and offices, the split system allows for greater individual control of air temperature. The greater control does come at a cost. More units are needed to create individual management resulting in a cluttered rooftop.
Heat pumps are another type of split system that supplies cool air in the summer and heat in the winter. A heat pump uses mechanical energy to extract heat from the air and transfer it either outside or inside, depending on whether your location requires heat or air conditioning. As with other split systems, the air handler is inside while the heat pump cabinet sits outside.
A Packaged air conditioner can be a RTU (rooftop unit) and is considered an all-in-one central air system consisting of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and fan coil all compact into a weather resistant housing cabinet. For commercial use, these units sit on the rooftop and have a higher capacity that is typically enough to cool an entire commercial building. The integrated thermostat is great for easy control and regulation of air temperature. A Packaged HVAC System uses both inside and outside air to keep CO2 levels safe. This also helps avoid overworking the unit during days with extreme temperatures to help save energy. They are often preferred for commercial use due to their modest footprint, space-conscious layout, and versatile installation.
A ductless mini-split system is one of the simplest and most versatile HVAC systems to install. Basic installation requires a hole in the wall for electrical wiring and a refrigerant line. The system requires two components, an indoor and outdoor unit, connected by copper refrigerant tubing and electrical wiring to deliver heated or cooled air without ductwork. The indoor unit consists of an evaporator coil and a blower fan while the outdoor unit holds the compressor, condenser coil, and fan. Ductless air condition systems use a similar process for cooling as a standard central air conditioning system. While central air conditioning systems use a single centrally located indoor unit to distribute cool air throughout an entire building through a series of ducts and vents, ductless indoor units deliver cool air directly to one area. A ductless HVAC system is highly efficient for commercial use in older buildings or smaller offices that don't require a massive output. It offers users greater control of personal airflow, minimal installation, and quiet operation. Here are two types of zones for a ductless air conditioning unit:
A single-zone unit is a set-up planned for one area. The connected units carry refrigerant and power via copper tubing and wiring to direct airflow from the outside unit directly inside.
A single outdoor compressor can distribute airflow to multiple indoor units, each controlled separately by a wireless remote, providing users with personal comfort control.
HVAC systems are essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment in commercial buildings. However, HVAC systems can be prone to a number of issues, including air leaks, clogged filters, and dirty coils, to name a few. Here are the most common HVAC system issues that we find and fix.
The most common issue found in HVAC systems is refrigerant leaks. If not fixed early enough, refrigerant leaks could harm your HVAC system and cause much larger issues down the road. Indications of a refrigerant leak include oil around valves, service ports, AC connections, or if your system simply fails to blow cool air. Short cycling is a normal audible queue in that your system has a refrigerant leak.
Typically, an air conditioner runs the compressor until the thermostat tells it to stop. Damage to the thermostat, clogged or dirty filters, and refrigerant leaks can cause your compressor to short cycle. The audible queue previously mentioned is the sound of the compressor in a continuous restart state until the cooling cycle finishes.
The filter is vital in protecting your air conditioner and evaporator coil from dirt and debris. When it gets clogged, the system and coils cannot adequately allow air to flow creating negative pressure and causing the system to work twice as hard. Changing the filters of your system quarterly or monthly can help your HVAC system's power and lifespan.
A key component of HVAC systems is the condenser coil. These coils help release heat generated by the unit to the outside. An accumulation of dust, dirt, debris, leaves, and grass, among other things, can reduce the unit's ability to release the heat generated. In fact, an EPA study showed a 21% drop in cooling efficiency as a result of as little as 0.042” of dirt on condensing coils. Clearly, it is important to keep condenser coils clean in order to maintain optimal HVAC performance. There are a few different ways to clean coils, but the most effective way is to use a coil cleaning brush. These brushes are designed to reach into tight spaces and remove even the most stubborn dirt and debris.
Noises emanating from your HVAC system are great auditory signs of issues with your HVAC unit. A few that we typically run into are as simple as:
With nearly two-thirds of RTUs experiencing a malfunctioning economizer, this is a common problem we find and fix. An economizer helps reduce energy consumption for cooling. A damper opens up to collect outside air for circulation if the outside air is cool enough and low in humidity. If the economize isn't function as intended, its air temperature sensors might fail or the dampers become stuck.
A clogged drain can cause a drop in air quality and create a buildup of stale and moldy water that can damage and rust components. This moisture and condensation, collected on the coil, is the result of refrigerant converting from liquid to gas in the evaporator coils. We recommend checking the drain pipe every time your or your maintenance provider performs an inspection.
If you have a loose evaporator belt, it can be hard on the pulley, reduce the fan's speed, and inevitably freeze the coil. The belt should be inspected and replaced quarterly or bi-yearly depending on its wear.
The actual steps may vary depending on the specifics of the job. However, this checklist for commercial ac installation can provide an overlook of the steps most likely to be taken. When working with Brink Inc.'s HVAC service team, we are a source for the customer at every step of the process.
HVAC systems are essential to maintaining a comfortable and safe environment in commercial buildings. And like all complex machinery, HVAC systems require regular maintenance to function. Neglecting HVAC maintenance can lead to several problems, including decreased efficiency, premature failure of components, and breakdowns. In extreme cases, poor maintenance can even pose a health and safety hazard. Fortunately, commercial air conditioner maintenance is relatively straightforward and definitely worth it. Brink Inc. offers comprehensive maintenance contracts that cover all the necessary inspections, repairs, and parts. And like all preventive maintenance, investing in HVAC maintenance can save you a lot of money in the long run.
HVAC systems play a role in customer experience, and it is important to keep them well-maintained in order to ensure the comfort of your customers and employees. Regularly performing maintenance can help to identify dirty coils, filters, or blower parts which can all lead to poor indoor air quality. By keeping your HVAC system clean and running smoothly, you can improve air quality within your business and create a more positive in-store experience for your customers. In turn, this can help to increase sales and prosper your business. Therefore, it is clear that a simple maintenance check can have numerous benefits for commercial businesses.
Preventative commercial HVAC maintenance is a must for any business owner. By keeping up with the maintenance on your air conditioner, you can reduce repair costs, prevent further damage to the unit, and prolong its lifespan. In addition, proper maintenance can lower your energy bills by up to 40 percent. Regularly checking and cleaning your unit will ensure that it is running efficiently and not overworking itself. Don't wait until your air conditioner breaks down to call a technician - schedule preventative maintenance today and rest easy knowing your business is in good hands.
When it comes to preparing a maintenance plan, a one-size-fits-all approach simply won't cut it. In order to keep your building comfortable all year round, you need a comprehensive, customized plan for maintaining your HVAC equipment. That's where an experienced HVAC service provider can be a valuable asset. They'll take factors like your climate, budget, and type of equipment into account to create a checklist to help you improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Depending on the climate you live in, the frequency of your maintenance tasks will vary. Those in temperate climates can be more lenient with their maintenance schedule, while those in harsher climates might need to perform monthly checks. However, all commercial maintenance programs should include at least four annual services. These services should include; checking and cleaning the air conditioner, as well as other routine tasks. By performing regular maintenance, you can help extend the life of your commercial air conditioner and prevent expensive repairs down the road.
As running a commercial HVAC system is a heavy operation expense, your HVAC contractor should lend assistance in the eventual purchasing decision. As a heating and cooling contractor in Montana and Wyoming, where temperatures can reach extremes, we know how to maximize the potential of your unit. Here are some quick considerations when starting your search.
At Brink Inc, we understand that the quality of your air conditioner can have a big impact on your commercial business. That's why we provide our customers with worry-free HVAC installation and maintenance services. Our pros are the best in the business, and we're dedicated to providing our customers with quality air conditioning at an affordable price. We offer a variety of services, including commercial air conditioner installation, repair, and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about our HVAC repair and installation services and how we can help you keep your commercial business cool and comfortable all year long.
Installing a commercial AC unit yourself is not recommended. It can be dangerous and lead to further damages and expenses. It is better, in the long run, to have a licensed professional install your AC unit. Research local companies to find a professional HVAC installer with experience from start to finish.
Basic RTU units consist of an Air Hood that draws in outside ambient air that will circulate into the building. The fresh air then flows through a rotating collection of sheet metal called Dampers that open to allow air into the unit or close to prevent air from entering or leaving. The controlled air then flows through a Filter that protects the electrical and mechanical components from dirt and dust that can reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of the machine. From here, the air is met by Coils that cool or heat the air by adding or removing thermal energy. A refrigeration system is typically used to cool the air. Comprising of a compressor, condenser, fan, and electrical controls. Typically a belt-driven fan will be pulling and pushing the air from the outside, through the system, and eventually throughout the building.
Firstly, you will need to calculate the heating and cooling loads for each room. Convert these loads into Mass Flow Rates (ṁ=Q+(cp x ΔT) before converting into Volume Flow Rates (V̇=ṁ x v). This ultimately provides you with approximately the air needed to meet the cooling load for a given room. Take into consideration the shape, material, and construction of the ductwork to optimize efficiency and reduce friction. Create your layout with listing and labels for design and efficiency. Use a Duct Pressure Loss Chart to identify the duct size needed for various pieces to optimize the flow rate and pressure drop. Use Dampers to help balance your system.
Commercial HVAC installation is expensive due to its significance to business owners and the specialization of contractors. Getting the right system installed can save business owners thousands of dollars every year. Likewise, contractors are quite specialized in understanding refrigerant dynamics, airflow, electrical, plumbing, thermodynamics, and undergo continual training.
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