Difference between Commercial and Residential HVAC systems

Do You Know the Difference between Commercial and Residential HVAC systems

HVAS Systems

Regulating the internal temperature of a residential or commercial property is important to maintain the occupants’ comfort. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems enable this to occur by heating and cooling the property when required in accordance with the user’s settings. In addition to enhancing the air quality and ventilation inside a property, HVAC systems absorb fresh air from the exterior of the property and pass that air through vents inside the property in either a heated or cooled form. HVAC systems not only recycle air but can humidify and dehumidify the air depending on the user’s requirements and comfort preferences.

About HVAC Systems

HVAC systems are common features of all residential and commercial properties. Depending on the size of the property, the type of property, the needs of the occupants, the surrounding environment and other factors, there are many types of HVAC systems that can be installed. From single area heating and cooling systems, to complex multi-area airflow and ventilation network units, HVAC systems are special electrical and mechanical equipment that circulate air within a building at the required temperature, humidity, amount and purity.

Without a functioning HVAC system, the occupants’ comfort would be affected due to extreme weather and environmental conditions. To support the effective operation of a HVAC system, the property should be well insulated with a high thermal efficiency rating and a high energy efficiency rating to minimise HVAC system use costs. These systems are critical for properties located in Australia and help support a stabilised environment for occupants to play, work, socialise and rest.

Differences between commercial and residential HVAC systems

There are many differences between commercial and residential HVAC systems. Here are 7 key differences between both types of HVAC’s systems.

1.  Size of Machine

Residential HVAC systems are likely to be smaller in size compared to commercial HVAC systems. Since residential properties are typically smaller than commercial properties, there are few areas to heat, cool or ventilate. A commercial (HVAC) system requires larger parts and components, and consumes more energy given the greater output required. While a residential HVAC system might not be used continuously throughout the day, the commercial models are designed for ongoing and intensive use.

2.  System Placements

A residential HVAC system might be located underneath the property, at the side of the house or pitched upon the first storey roof. The units are relatively smaller compared to commercial HVAC systems and do not require complex installation. Commercial HVAC units might be installed in the basement or on the roof to avoid noise pollution and to be accessible during an emergency or for routine servicing. Commercial HVAC systems must also comply with other building code requirements and OHS standards.

3.  Machine Complexity

A residential HVAC system is less complex than its commercial counterpart. The settings and features are minimal compared to commercial HVAC systems because residential systems are used to operate a few rooms without demanding comfort requirements. However, a commercial HVAC system needs to supply air to many rooms over multiple floors where doors and windows might be open throughout the day and the unit needs to cope with continuous activity.

4.  Drainage System

A commercial HVAC system has a less complex drainage system. Since a commercial property uses a larger HVAC system and is powered continuously throughout the day, more water will be drained from the system to ensure complete evaporation which means a complex plumbing network may be required to control water flow and to prevent over-flowing. Residential HVAC systems will have a simple drainage system that feeds into a pan.

5.  System Mechanism

Residential HVAC systems are typically stand-alone units that might be installed in every room or delivered through a network with ceiling and/or floor ducts. Commercial HVAC systems are usually installed in modular form for greater flexibility given commercial property fit-out is more complex than a residential property. These systems require plumbing and engineering experts to ensure that the air flow works effectively and that there are no dead spaces or area with poor heating or cooling performance.

6.  Equipment for systems

The equipment for commercial systems is more complex. Commercial properties are designed to have continuous performing systems to provide endless comfort throughout the day. To ensure that occupants of commercial spaces are comfortable working in their environment, the requirements for greater temperature, humidity and air quality regulation are strict. With residential systems, the requirements do not vary as much and there is greater leniency.

7.  System Maintenance Cost

The maintenance costs of a commercial HVAC system exceed the costs for a residential HVAC system. Commercial systems are complex units with many parts located throughout a network. Running and maintenance costs are higher due to relatively greater use, more intensive operation and less care offered to the system given occupants rarely foot the bills!

We are the heating, air-conditioning and ventilating specialists familiar with all types of HVAC systems. To book a service, repair or installation at either a commercial or residential property, please call us on 03 9878 4158 or email us at service@climaterite.com.au