3 Key Considerations for Rooftop HVAC Installations
There are many factors that may have led you to the decision to replace your rooftop HVAC units. You might be looking for energy efficiencies, or perhaps your existing system is old and not serviceable any longer. Or maybe you have concerns about the comfort of your occupants— they are too hot, too cold, or you want to improve the quality of the air inside your building. Whatever the reason, there are several important factors to consider when selecting a commercial rooftop HVAC system.
1. Is the Equipment Designed for the Application?
You will first want to be sure that the HVAC equipment is designed for your specific application. Then, be sure to think about who you intend to have service the equipment. You will want a system with easy serviceability or low service costs. Choosing a system that is programmable and can tie into existing building automation is also important to think about. Your local HVAC equipment dealer/distributor or commercial contractor will be able to help you make the right selection to fit your needs.
2. Is the Equipment Sized Properly?
In addition to being designed for the application itself, it’s also important for the equipment size to match the building size. If the building has been added onto in recent years, chances are the HVAC system will need to be increased as well. You will also want to consider a system with commercial zoning capabilities that can handle comfort in various sections of the building, at all times of day. HVAC equipment has advanced significantly over the last 10-15 years. Today’s equipment can be built with electronically commutated motors and variable speed compressors that are optimized to perform based off the temperature demands of the space you are heating or cooling and take advantage of the ambient temperature outside based on time of the day or year. There are also many types of equipment you can consider. Again, don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions to multiple dealers/distributors and contractors.
3. Does the Equipment Provide the Proper Energy Efficiency?
While it is tempting to choose the option that is the cheapest to install, it’s important to look at the payback of a system that operates with higher energy efficiency. In most cases, these HVAC units will pay for themselves in the energy savings quickly, allowing you to save money over the lifetime of the equipment.
No matter your initial reasons for replacing your rooftop HVAC unit, there are many benefits to upgrading to a new system. These benefits can come in the form of happier occupants because of their comfort, cost savings due to more energy efficient equipment and potential tax credits for the upgrades, and lower impacts to the environment.
Additional benefits include:
- Less money spent on maintenance
- Quieter systems
- More control over temperature and humidity for better perceived temperature
- Programming and linking to building automation systems
- Improved indoor air quality