Differences Between Commercial and Residential HVAC Systems

Posted on: Aug 23, 2016

Both homes and businesses rely on HVAC systems to maintain a comfortable temperature. However, there are some stark differences between the two. Depending on the kind of business, the variations in HVAC systems is rather extensive. Whether you’re looking for a particular unit or are curious of the differences, here are the main changes between commercial HVAC systems and residential units.

Location of the Unit

Most home units are installed either on the ground or in a window. Commercial units are located on the roof of the building. While the large units can go next to a commercial building, it generally is easier for duct work, not to mention it protects against potential vandalism and improves landscaping.

Modular System

A residential unit are individual, self contained systems that cannot be modified. Commercial buildings use a modular system which means additional modules can be added to the entire system in order to improve, increase or reduce the level of heating and cooling the system needs. This way, whether you are installing a new network server into a particular room and need a more powerful AC, additional units can be installed.

Packaged Unit

Your home HVAC unit is a split unit. this means components to the hardware can be found in several locations, such as on the outdoor unit and inside as well. A commercial HVAC system is a packaged unit, which means all of the hardware is housed in the exact same location.

Ventilation

Ventilation is more more extensive than what your home unit provides. With a commercial ventilation, you need the ability to remove additional dust, vapors, debris and just about everything else from the facility. A commercial unit takes advantage of several different components in order to improve the ventilation.

Power

Naturally, a commercial system is far more powerful than a residential unit. Commercial systems must be able to cool and heat often tens of thousands of square feet. This is why commercial systems are modular based.

From commercial HVAC systems to residential units, when you need work done on your system, reach out and contact Airco Service, Inc. Whether you have a question or are looking for a particular service, the professionals at Airco can help.