The similarities between commercial and residential HVAC are that they both heat, cool and ventilate a space. However, that is where the similarities end. The most notable variation between the two is the size difference. Commercial air conditioning units tend to be considerably larger than what you would find in a residential space. Let’s dive a little deeper into the differences between the type of system you use in your house and what is used in non-residential buildings.
Commercial and Residential Air Conditioners Are Different Sizes
We’ve already established that there is a significant size difference between your home’s AC unit and a commercial HVAC system. The systems are more complex in maintaining the temperature and comfort of large commercial spaces and demand more energy to achieve the desired set points. Meanwhile, residential AC systems are small enough to be hidden in a closet or an out-of-reach space within the home.
HVAC System Placement Variations
You’ve probably driven by warehouses, schools or even hospitals and noticed the massive units on the rooftop. Commercial A/C systems require more storage space than a unit designed for residential use. Installing the non-residential units on the roof saves space and helps avoid noise pollution in the commercial space.
The much smaller, compact air conditioner units designed for residential use are often installed within the house itself: in a crawlspace, attic, basement, or an A/C closet in the actual living space. You may have noticed a unit outside that blows warm air. This is the condenser, the heart of the entire system, and its cabinet houses the compressor, fan, and condensing coils.
Split or Packaged AC System?
We’ve already mentioned that commercial heating and cooling systems are much more complex than residential A/C units. The components of a non-residential system are all combined into one single unit: a package system. Package systems may include multiple thermostats and controls, allowing various parts of a store, office building, or school to maintain different temperatures at the same time.
The central air in your home is usually a split system, meaning the condensing unit (the outside unit) is separate from the evaporator (the unit inside your home). A copper tube runs between the two, carrying the refrigerant. This system relies on ducts throughout the structure to deliver cool or warm air. Typically, one thermostat is installed, and the entire space will be warmed or cooled to the same set point.
*NOTE: Some circumstances warrant using small, residential packaged units such as manufactured homes.
Cost of AC Unit Repairs, Maintenance and Installation Services
Since commercial air conditioners are massive compared to residential units, it’s safe to assume they also cost more overall. Factors such as size, complexity and type of mechanism used usually determine the cost associated with maintaining, repairing and installing non-residential systems. Access to the system’s location may be factored into the service price as some commercial units are challenging to get to. They also require highly experienced and qualified HVAC professionals to work on commercial HVAC equipment.
Find the Right Residential or Commercial Air Conditioner Company
While both systems are designed to achieve the same goal, their applications are entirely different. Understanding the differences may help you decide which AC company best suits your needs: commercial or residential. It’s important to only trust your equipment to experienced and competent techs in the type of system or model you need to be serviced, repaired, or installed. Some companies, such as First Degree Air Conditioning, hire skilled and certified technicians to work on both commercial and home-use units.
