Commercial Air Conditioning Systems – Everything you need to know

Every commercial building has its own unique needs. If you’re building a new facility or updating your cooling system, it’s important to learn about your options and make the best choice for your space, your customers, and your staff.

We’re going to give you an overview of some of the most common types of commercial air conditioning systems. This will help you narrow down your choices so you can find a system that will give you consistent and cost-effective cooling for many years to come.

The 4 Types of Commercial Air Conditioning Systems

There are four main types of commercial air conditioning systems available that you should consider for your business. Each type of system works best in certain situations. It’s important to think about your needs and space to make the best decision for your space.

1. Ductless Split System Air Conditioners

Ductless systems use the same type of technology found in other HVAC systems, but there is one essential difference. Other split systems utilize ducts to circulate treated air through your building. In contrast, a duct-free system has to be installed in the room that it needs to cool.

This system would need to be installed in a room with an outside-facing wall. The ductless system’s blower is housed in the indoor unit — allowing it to blow cool treated air into the room. 

One of the biggest drawbacks of this type of system is that it’s large, noisy, and easily visible. This can make it less than ideal for businesses that are customer-facing. Overall duct-free split systems are usually best for workshops or open areas where much of the work is performed in a single room away from customers.

2. Duct-Free Mini Split System Commercial Air Conditioners

Duct-free mini split systems are similar to their full-size counterparts that we just discussed — they are simply smaller and make less noise.

These smaller units can be a great compromise for smaller businesses that want to enjoy the convenience of a ductless split system without compromising the aesthetics of their spaces. Basically Duct-Free Mini Split System AC units are ideal for spot cooling areas where ductwork is not achievable.

However, if you have large rooms or multiple buildings, you would have to install multiple systems in order to cool your spaces efficiently. Also extra units can make this style of air conditioner less cost-effective.

Duct-free mini split systems are typically ideal for smaller spaces like kiosks, sheds, or stalls where they can have access to outside walls and smaller areas to cool.

3. Standard Ducted Split System Commerical Air Conditioner Systems

Ducted split systems are designed in three parts. There is an outdoor unit, an indoor unit, and a series of ducts that move the cooled air throughout your building.

In addition to routine maintenance, with ducted systems, you will also need to hire a professional to perform annual cleaning on your ducts. This regular cleaning will prevent unwanted buildup from accumulating in your ducts — which could compromise air quality and prevent adequate airflow.

Futhermore these types of split systems are some of the energy-efficient options for larger spaces. When they are properly installed and maintained, they can provide even cooling across every room with a vent.

4. Packed System Air Conditioners

Package system air conditioners use all of the same primary components of traditional air conditioners but they are positioned differently. 

Meanwhile in traditional split systems, the compressor and condenser coils are housed in an outdoor unit. Then the evaporator is placed inside, allowing it to absorb heat from your air indoors.

By contrast, in a packaged system, all of the components are housed in a single box located against an outside wall of your building. This packaged approach makes this style of system less of an eyesore inside your business.

However, these systems can be more obtrusive outside your building. As a result, these types of systems are generally located on the roof or against a wall that is not immediately visible to customers.

Get Help Making the Right Choice for You

Businesses cater to a wide range of clientele.

• Do you have an upscale business where you have to carefully consider your aesthetic appeal for sophisticated clients?
• Have you got a workshop space where you have a large room to cool and keep comfortable for your employees?
• Do you have multiple rooms or several buildings that you need to maintain cool temperatures on?

The answer to those questions can help lead you to the right choice.

But, you don’t have to make that decision alone. Once you are ready to make a decision, Siv Air can help you evaluate your businesses needs. Siv Air specialises in brands you can trust, including Fujitsu.

Book an appointment with us at Siv Air to talk with our experienced AC technicians. We’ll explore your options with you and help you decide on the right combination of performance and efficiency for your needs.