While it may seem like all HVACs are the same, there are actually enormous differences between commercial and residential systems. Each one has been built for a unique purpose, and the complexity of each machine gives it specialized features that enhance its performance in a home or business. These core differences between commercial and residential HVAC systems highlight why it’s important to make sure you get the right design and model for your residential or commercial property.
Size and Complexity
The sheer size difference of a commercial vs. residential HVAC unit is the biggest difference. Commercial systems are designed to heat and cool much larger buildings, so they must be built bigger to accommodate the extra demand.
There are also specialized HVAC units with high-performance filters for locations that require impeccable air filtration, such as hospitals, factories, and industrial facilities.
More Complex Installation
Most residential HVAC units are straightforward: a furnace or air handler goes inside, a condenser goes outside and ductwork delivers air throughout the home. In commercial designs, the network of ducts is only one major design element. There are often many rooftop units (RTUs) that work alongside commercial HVAC to cool the systems. A variety of boilers, air handlers and cooling towers are often involved to maintain the temperature.
Large commercial properties often have a wide range of parts working together to heat and cool on demand. This requires specialized installation, equipment, and maintenance over time.
Installation Location
Most of the time, residential HVAC units are easy to install in a basement, closet, and/or side of the home. Commercial HVAC set-ups are mostly on the roof, which makes it easier to service, saves space indoors, and reduces noise.
The modular layout of commercial HVAC installation also makes it much easier to repair and replace individual units and parts as needed, rather than tearing out an entire system to fix an issue.
This design saves businesses money and helps prevent full breakdowns that would endanger the business or even halt its operations until the HVAC was restored.
Ventilation and Health Requirements
Commercial properties have a wide range of codes they need to meet, including ventilation requirements and health codes. Local laws and building codes determine how much fresh air must be in a building per person to prevent the spread of disease. In medical facilities, multi-stage HEPA filters are necessary to filter out up to 99.7% of particles. Some units in hospitals need even stronger air filters to protect patients’ health.
Commercial HVAC technicians understand the importance of local codes and regulations on business operations and people’s well-being. Their role is to design and install comprehensive systems that are built to meet these high standards.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Company
Whether installing or maintaining a system, property owners need to work with a skilled company with licensed contractors. Make sure that the business has specialization in residential or commercial HVAC, depending on your needs, so you can get the right system and service for your project. When you need commercial HVAC services in Pueblo, CO, contact R Buck Heating.