4 Ways In Which Residential And Commercial HVAC Systems Differ

Residential and commercial HVAC units serve similar purposes. Nonetheless, the mechanisms and parts of each vary. The difference results from the varying needs of home and work spaces. Here are four top ways in which residential and commercial HVAC systems differ.

1. Size and complexity

Commercial HVACs are usually larger than residential units. The bigger size is necessary because commercial HVAC systems cool larger spaces. Businesses like department stores and warehouses are big and would be better off with larger units.

Residential HVACs are common in homes and large premises with partitioned rooms. Smaller spaces need smaller residential systems because an oversized HVAC wastes energy. The power consumption of the residential units is also lower than the energy use of commercial HVACs.

2. Placement

HVAC installation contractors usually install commercial HVACs on top of the premises for different reasons. First, the placement saves space since commercial HVACs are big. Second, the unit's operational noises won't bother occupants. Third, the rooftop location prevents work disruption during repairs and replacements.

Residential HVACs are usually placed in your backyard or alongside the building. The unit stays out of sight but still offers easy access for your HVAC contractor whenever needed. Also, residential units' noise is much less than that of commercial units and doesn't have to be far from the premises.

3. Maintenance Needs

The size, complexity, and mechanisms of residential and commercial HVACs differ. As a result, the maintenance procedures of each vary based on the unit's design and operation. Also, you'll need an HVAC technician skilled in the specific area your HVAC lies. For instance, maintenance of commercial HVACs calls for highly experienced and skilled HVAC installation contractors.

For residential systems, you can sometimes complete essential maintenance without expert help. For instance, you can change your unit's air filters and do other small tasks. Residential HVACs also have a lesser workload and need less frequent maintenance. Nevertheless, you'll have to work with an HVAC contractor for advanced problems.

4. Drainage

Commercial HVACs systems cool larger spaces, causing extra moisture cycles. This fact necessitates more advanced drainage systems than their residential counterparts. The drainage system for a commercial HVAC consists of several pipes and pans to prevent an overflow. Also, you'll need a drainage system installation alongside your HVAC for commercial HVAC installation.

Residential HVACs have smaller drainage systems. Also, a residential system drains in one pan outside the house. So, drainage for residential systems doesn't have a detailed design and structure like commercial HVACs.

Conclusion 

Residential and commercial HVAC units aren't interchangeable. A commercial HVAC in a residential space will be underutilized. Also, a residential system in a commercial area won't achieve the desired goals. An exception is if you have a commercial space with smaller rooms, where you can use several smaller residential units. But if unsure of what to do, ask for guidance from HVAC contractors.