As a business owner, you know that a comfortable environment is a key to your employees’ productivity. When it’s time to replace your commercial HVAC system, you want to choose one that will provide the best indoor air quality and comfort for your employees and your budget. Keep reading to learn how to select the right commercial HVAC system.
What are the different types of HVAC filters available for commercial systems?
Commercial HVAC filters play an important role in the overall efficiency of a heating and cooling system. The type of filter you need depends on the specific needs of your business. There are four main types of filters: HEPA, pleated, activated carbon, and electronic air cleaners.
The most important factor when choosing a filter is the size of the particles it captures. Filters with higher ratings capture smaller particles, which results in better indoor air quality. HEPA filters are rated to capture 99.97 percent of all particles larger than 0.3 micrometers.
Pleated filters have a good filtering capability and are less expensive than HEPA filters. However, they do not remove as many small particles as HEPA filters. Activated carbon filters remove gases and odors from the air and effectively remove smoke and chemical vapors. Electronic air cleaners use ultraviolet light or ozone to kill bacteria and viruses in the air.
Estimate the size of the space you need to heat or cool.
When choosing the right commercial HVAC system, one of the most important factors is the size of the space you need to heat or cool. You’ll need to consider both the square footage of the space and its specific needs, such as how many people will be occupying it and what kind of climate control is required.
Once you have a good estimate for the size of your space, you can start shopping for an HVAC system that will meet your requirements. Keep in mind that bigger isn’t always better; you don’t want to choose a system that’s too large or powerful for your space, as it will end up being more expensive and energy-intensive than necessary.
What is your budget?
When choosing a commercial HVAC system, you’ll want to consider both upfront and ongoing costs. The upfront costs include the purchase price of the equipment as well as any installation or labor costs. You’ll want to consider the size of the building, the climate, and the type of system, all of which play into the price of a new HVAC system. The ongoing costs include things like energy usage and maintenance expenses. This also includes replacement parts and labor costs.
The size of the building will determine how powerful of a system you need. If you have a small office with one or two employees, you don’t need as large a system as a business with hundreds of employees. The climate also impacts cost. A colder climate will require a more powerful system than a warmer climate. In addition, the type of system you choose impacts price. There are three types of systems: gas-fired boilers, electric heat pumps, and air-source heat pumps. Air-source heat pumps are most popular because they are energy efficient and can be used in cold and warm climates.
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, take the time to meet with contracts in person and ask questions about their experience, expertise, and what type of system they would recommend for your business. Choosing the right commercial HVAC system cannot be overemphasized. The system you choose will have a significant impact on the comfort and productivity of your employees. As a business owner, you’ll want to consider your needs and options before deciding.
