What is light commercial HVAC? Designed for smaller spaces that do not have the room or need for large commercial HVAC systems, light commercial HVACs are a better option for restaurants, small office spaces, and shops.
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Understanding Light Commercial HVAC
Traditional commercial HVAC systems are large and powerful because they need to provide a higher level of air conditioning and treatment over a larger space.
However, some of these systems simply do not work for commercial spaces because of the amount of space and design they require.
This is where light commercial HVAC can be a solid solution, providing a way for some commercial businesses, such as small retail shops, restaurants, or small offices, to have a more efficient but effective level of heating and cooling.
Determining the proper type of commercial HVAC system for a space can be challenging. It is best to work with a local contractor who can learn a bit more about the type of demands on the HVAC system expected.
Factors such as the climate, insulation levels of the space, and dimensions of the space will determine if a light HVAC system is a better option.
Factors like energy regulation can also matter. A too-large HVAC system is expensive to run and provides no real benefit, even if it is designed to be more efficient. A system that is too small can be taxed heavily if the space is too large for it to manage effectively, creating a less-than-desirable outcome.
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Types of Light Commercial HVAC Commonly Found
When meeting with an HVAC installer, it is helpful to consider several types of light commercial HVAC to determine which offers the best overall fit. Since these systems operate more like residential systems, they require a bit of fine-tuning to ensure the best possible selection.
- Light commercial air conditioning: Light commercial AC should be selected based on the environment as well as the overall efficiency of the space. Traditional whole-home (whole-building) systems may be applicable.
- Ductless mini–split: A ductless mini-split system blows air into a single space instead of through vents, making it ideal for one-room spaces that lack ductwork. They are less common in commercial settings.
- Light commercial heating: Factors such as size and available resources determine the property type of light commercial heating solutions.
- Single split system: A very affordable commercial HVAC system, ideal for smaller buildings, single split systems are more affordable than central systems, and they are self-contained, taking up less overall space.
- Packaged units: Packaged units can sometimes be an effective option for commercial HVAC systems because they weigh less than traditional models and, depending on the style, may have a specific airflow and level of control appropriate for the space.
Other options exist as well, including solar heating solutions that utilize passive solar heating methods to support the standard heating system, as well as geothermal heat pumps, also called ground source heat pumps.
A comprehensive understanding of the specs for the location, along with the type of heating and cooling needs present, allows your HVAC installer to select the most appropriate solution for your space.
Getting this right ultimately saves you money and minimizes the risk of insufficient function, so be sure to find answers to your frequently asked questions to learn more.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Light Commercial HVAC System
Building owners need to consider various factors when choosing a light commercial HVAC system for their space. By working with a skilled, local provider, you can compare several different options to determine which is the best fit. Some of the most critical considerations include:
- Scale: A single-use system for the entire building is often favored, but selecting based on the size of the building may not be enough if there is significant equipment or numerous windows inside.
- Efficiency: Commercial HVAC systems are more efficient than ever, with new technology available to further enhance the use of these systems with less overall energy. Zoned systems work well for smaller office spaces or areas where temperature controls need to differ significantly, such as in the front or back house of a restaurant.
- Maintenance considerations: Because these systems still operate in a commercial space, it remains critical that businesses think about the necessary upkeep the system requires to operate routinely and safely. A system not appropriate for the space will need significantly more updating to keep it functioning at its best.
In light commercial heating and cooling, it may also be possible to tap into ENERGY STAR systems, which may provide a far more affordable solution in terms of operational costs.
Note that these systems tend to be 6% more efficient than standard equipment, making them the better overall option for many spaces.
ENERGY STAR light commercial heating & cooling also notes that at least 25% of rooftop HVAC systems are oversized, which drives higher operational costs without any performance benefit, also showing the value in making the move to a light commercial HVAC system instead.
Costs Are Often a Factor for Businesses
In some situations, the move to light commercial HVAC systems makes sense from a cost perspective, but not always if the space needs more power and performance that a light system may not be able to afford.
There are times when larger commercial HVAC is the better option, especially for those that have significant square footage, operate numerous pieces of equipment, or need highly controlled environments over large spaces.
Work with an HVAC contractor to determine if light or full-scale heating and cooling systems are best for your space, all backed by our 5-star satisfaction guarantee.
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Learn More About Light Commercial HVAC Through a Consultation
If you are ready to upgrade your existing heating or cooling system or you are installing a new system on new construction, set up a consultation with Ambient Edge.
A light commercial HVAC system can provide numerous benefits, including lower costs and enhanced overall comfort in the right environment.
Explore the options for utilizing light HVAC systems within your space before making a decision.
