Do Ductless Heatless and Cooling Systems Work for Commercial Buildings?
Many homeowners are switching to ductless heating and cooling systems in favor of the traditional HVAC. But, they’re not the only ones. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that more and more commercial buildings are going ductless, too. In fact, ductless heating and cooling systems have been used in commercial buildings for several decades now. So, if you’re a facility manager, ductless systems might be worth considering. They’ve proven a viable option for a variety of applications, including:
- Classrooms
- Offices
- Churches
- Retail stores
- Restaurants
- Lobbies
- Conference centers
- Office complexes
- Fitness centers
- And more
But, is going ductless right for you and your building? Ductless systems, also known as mini-split systems, use a single heat pump. They have no ducts, which means they’re easier to install. They come with an outdoor unit and an indoor unit, much like a typical air conditioner. However, the indoor unit doesn’t need a window. Instead, a small 3” hole is drilled into the wall. Read on for how they might be of benefit now and in the future.
The Benefits for Commercial Buildings
There are many benefits to ductless systems, which explains their growing popularity. First, they are very energy efficient. A lot of energy is lost through ducts. On top of that, they use inverter-driven compressors. Instead of shutting down and starting up to adjust temperature like HVACs do (which consumes a lot of energy) they simply slow down or speed up. As a result, building managers can save on costs and enjoy a smaller carbon footprint.
Second, ductless systems are small and compact. While the indoor unit is visible inside the building, they are fairly inconspicuous. Many homeowners shy away from going ductless since they’re not exactly a stylish décor item. But, for commercial buildings, style and design aren’t such a priority.
Third, ductless systems produce better air quality. Their multi-stage filtration system helps eliminate more particles from the air. Also, these systems are more consistent. So, if you run a building where lots of people work or visit, they can feel more comfortable no matter what season it is.
What About Large Commercial Buildings?
It’s true that ductless heating and cooling systems were first developed for homes. But, over time, the technology has advanced. Now, there’s a wide range of ductless units to select from. Some are designed for single rooms and small offices. Others, however, are built for large complexes and shopping centers.
Plus, for every one outdoor unit, there can be as many as eight indoor units. And, they’re all controlled independently. So, if one room needs to be cool and another one warm, you can easily accommodate that.
To learn more about ductless heating and cooling systems, talk to your contractor about which unit is best for your needs. If your building doesn’t have a duct system or if you’re expanding, now is a great time to switch. Contact The Severn Group, the HVAC experts of the D.C. and Maryland area, for details.