Key Things to Know Before a Commercial AC Installation

Installing air conditioning systems can be a complicated and time-intensive process. Technicians and specific units need to be chosen, inspections need to be scheduled and completed, and additional steps—such as activating warranties and filing permits—need to be taken care of. Plus, depending on the type of system you choose and the extent of the project itself, your business may need to shut down for a day or two. 

With so much to consider, it is important to be as informed and confident as possible before beginning the air conditioning (AC) installation process. That is where Optimum Air Solutions and our over two decades of experience comes in. With an expert team that has the technical know-how to work on a variety of AC brands and models, we can help make the commercial AC installation process as quick and easy as possible. 

What is a Commercial AC Installation?

A commercial AC installation provided by a reputable heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) company is a far more complex process than just placing a new cooling unit. It is the making of comprehensive plans and component or system selections in order to ensure your AC will be as efficient and long-lasting as possible. This includes conducting property inspections, considering budgets and personal preferences, and determining the best AC size and model to serve the needs of your space. In the end, the goal is to create a consistently comfortable environment for anyone and everyone in the building, from customers to employees to tenants. 

What to Know Before Getting Started on Your AC Installation

Before you can get started on choosing an AC and planning your installation, there is some information you may need to gather or make yourself aware of. This includes:

 

1.Choosing the right HVAC company

An unqualified HVAC technician may fail to file the necessary permits, complete comprehensive inspections or properly install your new AC system. Consider factors including referrals, reviews, licensing, communication, available services and estimated costs when making your choice.

2.The state of your current AC system and other HVAC components

Not only can this tell you whether an existing system actually needs replacing, but also whether other components—such as ductwork—need to be repaired or replaced.

3.Warranty information

Before getting a new AC installed, it is important to take a close look at the warranty you are being offered. This can help you to determine factors including the warranty’s duration, limitations and coverage. Commercial AC warranties generally fall into two categories:

4.Installation timeline

How long will the office air conditioning installation take, and how much of your building will it affect? While delays can happen, getting an estimate of your project’s scope and timeline can help you to make plans and prepare for disruptions. One-day jobs, for example, may be scheduled in the early morning, late afternoon or over the weekend, depending on your business’ hours. This may allow you to mitigate the installation’s impact on your employees, customers and daily profits.

Choosing a New AC System

Commercial AC systems, as a whole, tend to be more powerful and complex than residential AC systems. This is because they often have larger spaces to cool, as well as varied employee, resident and/or building needs to account for. Additionally, commercial air conditioning often relies on packaged units, which are placed on the roof to save space and prevent noise from disrupting those inside the building.

Despite these differences, choosing a commercial AC system often relies on similar criteria as residential ACs, including:

1. Cost
   

   Size, system type and project complexity are among the factors which can affect the cost of your commercial AC system. While smaller and cheaper systems may seem enticing, given the lower upfront cost, you may end up paying more down the line if they strain themselves too hard or fail to meet your business’ needs.  

2. Building layout and cooling needs
   

   A business with an open layout, such as a restaurant or retail location, may be best served by centralised systems controlled by a single thermostat. Owners of commercial spaces such as apartment complexes or office buildings, however, may prefer split systems in order to allow residents or employees to change the temperature to suit their individual needs and preferences. Similarly, larger buildings with higher cooling needs, such as hotels and warehouses, may benefit from a packaged AC system. That is, a unit which contains both heating and cooling components and which tend to be more powerful than split units.

3. Climate
   

   If your commercial building is located in a warmer climate, your AC may need to expend more energy in order to cool your space. You’ll need to make sure that the model you choose can handle the strain without breaking down too quickly.

4. Air filtration needs
   

   Buildings such as restaurants, studios, apartment complexes and gyms may need an AC system with greater filtration capabilities in order to remove particles and pollutants from the air. 

5. SEER rating
   

   The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating of your AC determines how much energy will be used when cooling your property. Choosing a unit with a higher rating may raise initial costs, but it will also ensure that your AC performs its function with greater efficiency, potentially reducing your energy bill.

Provide a Boost to Your Property’s Comfort and Air Quality with Optimum Air Solutions

As a business owner, choosing an AC which can meet the needs of your tenants, employees and customers is a necessary aspect of your continued financial success. A poorly air conditioned or ventilated building may affect not only the comfort of those inside, but also their productivity and emotional health. However, working with a certified and licensed company like Optimum Air Solutions can help you avoid these concerns. Our team of expert technicians will be by your side in order to assist in making decisions, planning out the commercial HVAC installation, and determining a maintenance schedule that works for everyone involved. And with our customer-centric approach and comprehensive initial consultation, we will make sure that your new AC system can meet all the unique needs of your business. 

Ready to upgrade or replace your commercial AC system? Optimum Air Solutions is ready to help. Just give us a call or send us a message today!