HVAC systems, short for heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, exist within almost every commercially used unit or space. HVAC systems are used to manage the heating and cooling of an indoor environment, as well as ensure that a space is effectively ventilated and free from excess moisture. HVAC equipment can be comprised of elements such as boilers, air conditioning units, moisture vents and ducts – with the elements featured within the system varying from one unit to the next.
HVAC systems come in a range of varieties, shapes and sizes, each of which feature different structural configurations and a variety of specific advantages. Some HVAC units work with each component operating individually, while others see the elements working alongside each other in order to generate the desired effects – the latter are often referred to as combined systems and tend to include both central heating and air conditioning systems.
Due to the range of HVAC options available, it is important that users establish which variety fulfils their needs and suits the structural properties of their target space. HVAC units can be pricey investments for many businesses, so it’s essential that this investment is thoroughly researched. In this blog from MFM we provide an overview of the different types of HVAC systems, outlining properties as well as potential advantages and disadvantages of each.
Split Systems
As suggested by the name, split HVAC units work in two parts. Split HVAC systems feature both indoor and outdoor elements that are connected by copper tubing. Within this system, the condenser and compressor are stored in an outdoor cabinet. Meanwhile, a similar indoor cabinet will store the evaporator coil and an air handler that’s responsible for pushing cooler air through the system’s ducts.
Hybrid Systems
As with many hybrid systems, hybrid HVAC systems (sometimes called dual fuel systems) allow users to choose from two different energy sources. During mild/cold months, hybrid systems use an air source heat pump that pumps heat from outside to inside using a refrigerant. When things get really chilly or below freezing, an air source heat pump can’t work as effectively as it can in milder conditions – it is then that a fossil fuel furnace takes over. So, in essence – one is always available to back the other up. Some users may wish to program their system to make the switch at a particular temperature, others may wish to make the change manually. This flexibility offers users the ability to match their HVAC system to their individual preferences.
Hybrid HVAC systems can seem like seriously pricey investments to begin with. However, many customers see substantial reductions in heating and cooling bills long term, resulting in hybrid HVACs being regarded as highly economical overall purchases.
Duct Free Systems
As the name suggests, duct-free or ‘ductless’ HVAC systems do not feature ducts as a part of their structure. Ductless HVAC units allow for targeted heating and cooling. Without ducts, heating or cooling effects are pumped directly into a chosen room. If a user wishes one room or segment of a unit to be hotter or cooler than the other, this is made possible with duct free HVAC systems. Duct free systems are also largely quiet, so heating or cooling one room needn’t compromise the quiet environment in the rest of a building.
Packaged Heating and Air Systems
Packaged units offer a simplified, all in one system that are ideal for businesses whose premises don’t feature between floor crawl spaces. Packaged HVAC systems are arranged highly efficiently, with all of its system’s parts being stored together. These parts include the evaporator coil, condenser and compressor. Some packaged systems may also feature a natural gas furnace or electric heating coil.
Packaged heating and air systems connect a component storage cabinet to all the relevant areas of a house, property or unit, allowing for efficient heating and cooling of an entire space.
The differences in configuration between packaged and other HVAC varieties make packaged HVAC’s the ideal solution for businesses with limited space. Packaged HVAC systems are also thought to be more efficient than other varieties such as split systems. The outdoor placement of a packaged system also reduces the noisiness of this HVAC variety. However, it should be noted that this outdoor positioning can make them more susceptible to animal and weather damage, which may in turn reduce the system’s lifespan.
Expert Advice with MFM
Here at MFM, we are one of the leading HVAC contractors in the South West. We specialise in designing, installing and maintaining commercial air conditioning systems of all sizes and are proudly accredited Daikin D1+ installers and Mitsubishi Diamond Quality Partners enabling us to provide extended warranties up to 7 years on installations.
For professional advice on what type of HVAC system is right for your property, please don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
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