How do you choose a suitable industrial aircon unit?
Keeping the workplace comfortable is essential for the health, safety, and productivity of employees. Workers tend to be restless when the workplace is too warm or cold for comfort. It may also result in illnesses and affect their performance.
In addition, the proper industrial air conditioning unit helps protect equipment and electronics. Some electronic devices must be maintained at certain temperatures to maximise their lives and avoid malfunctions.
Things to consider for the right industrial air conditioning unit
When purchasing an industrial air conditioning unit, it is necessary to get the right fit. In addition, it will help ensure efficiency and maintain the comfort of everyone in the building.
The size of the area to be cooled
The air conditioning unit’s cooling capacity should match the size of the space to be cooled. Doing so will maximise its efficiency. If the unit’s cooling capacity is insufficient, it will not be able to cool the room effectively. However, if its cooling capacity is too much for the space where it will be used, it will cost more energy.
One of the first things to consider is the size of the building and the number of occupants. This information will help in sizing the industrial AC to install.
The purpose of the building to be cooled
What is the primary purpose of the building? For example, is it a hospital, a plant, a shopping centre, or a network data centre?
The function of the building will help the facilities engineer choose the right AC unit to cool its space. Some workplaces, such as data centres, need constant low temperatures to protect network equipment.
The workplace’s specific cooling needs
Whether the unit will cool a large area at all times or only specific places at certain times can help in choosing an AC unit. For instance, if only specific areas are to be cooled at particular times, zone cooling or portable AC units may be practical options.
The nature of the indoor space
How the indoor space was built and the construction materials used should be considered in choosing an industrial AC unit. The nature of the indoor environment affects how heat is trapped in the space. This includes the materials used and the machines and equipment in the workspace, which may generate heat.
The activities in the workplace must also be factored in when making a choice. For example, will the door always be open, or will it be kept closed? What are the processes that are taking place in the building?
The location and climate
The climate where the building is located will greatly affect how much cooling it will need. For instance, the type of AC that works in areas with dry climates may not work for areas with high humidity during warmer months.
Of course, the weather outside affects the performance of the AC unit. For locations with high humidity, portable AC units are recommended.
The type of AC System
For commercial purposes, two types of AC systems are commonly used. These are the split AC systems and VRF (variable refrigerant flow) AC systems. Split systems are composed of interior and outdoor units. They are ideal for cooling individual rooms and can be cost-effective for offices.
However, for larger commercial areas, VRF may be the better solution. This is because VRF systems are centralised and more efficient when used in larger spaces.
The ventilation of the building.
For the AC to work as efficiently as possible, industrial and commercial spaces must have proper ventilation. Depending on the processes that take place in the building, there may be harmful pollutants that can contaminate the indoor air. Hot processes can also add to heat stress. Proper ventilation can remove excess heat and introduce fresher and clean air to the working environment.
Sufficient industrial ventilation can ensure enough oxygen content and reduce the risks of rising carbon monoxide levels. Along with the AC unit, it helps maintain thermal comfort for everyone in the vicinity.
Ease of control
Many building managers will prefer a system that will give them easy control over regulating the temperature in the building. Therefore, when selecting an industrial AC unit, check its controls and whether it is user-friendly and accessible.
Modern, cutting-edge air conditioners include controls with sensors and digital readouts that simplify adjusting the temperature. It is easier to alter the temperature and performance of the device to suit a particular work environment if the operating modes are more flexible.
In addition, it will be easy to maximise the performance of the air conditioning system if it provides remote control. Without needing to use the controls on the actual device, modifications can be made anywhere.
Additional features
Additional features can make an AC unit more attractive than its competitors. These added features may include:
- Multiple fan speeds
- Adjustable air-flow vents
- Timer functions
- Sensors that can detect the presence of people in a room
- Clean filter notification
How discreet the unit is
A discreet AC unit is necessary in some workspaces to create a good impression. Some may also want a discreet and concealed unit for design purposes. Fortunately, various industrial AC systems can be discreet but still provide good cooling.
Maintenance of the unit
When choosing an AC unit, it is essential to know how it needs to be maintained. Some providers provide planned maintenance support for their units. Proper maintenance can prevent costly problems and faults affecting business processes and operations.
Contact Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration for all your industrial cooling requirements
With over eight decades of experience, Coles Air Conditioning and Refrigeration is one of the trusted names in the HVAC industry in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley, and NSW Central Coast. We serve residential, commercial and industrial clients and handle the design and installation of AC systems. We also provide reliable after-sales services to our clients. Call us on 02 4957 0221, and let us talk about how we can make your office or home cooler and more comfortable.
