Abbreviated as HVAC, the heating ventilation and air conditioning is a common, daily use system, which provides heating and cooling. Generally, people use the term HVAC to refer to this system. The system remains installed in a wide range of residential as well as commercial buildings.
Right from the time HVAC systems were first introduced, their popularity has been on the rise continuously. This is due to their customizable design and optimum levels of comfort they offer. The main reason for the installation of the HVAC systems is that they provide warmth during the winters and coolness and freshness during summers. But these systems do a lot more than that. The HVAC also improves the air quality inside homes, offices, and buildings through filtering and maintaining the humidity level to provide a healthy and comfortable environment.
At Hood Builder, we specialize in the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of different types of HVAC systems for restaurants. For your knowledge, we have prepared this guide, which includes information on how HVAC systems function, HVAC history, types of HVAC systems, and HVAC design as well as their installation and maintenance. So, let us dive in!
How Do HVAC Systems Work?
Though the designs of HVAC systems vary, the basic components in all of the systems are the same. Just as the acronym suggests, the system performs three key functions – heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. This is the reason why these systems have a comprehensive design.
If the HVAC system stops working in your restaurant or building, you will know instantly. One of the most important functions of this system is ventilation or mechanical ventilation to be more precise. For a comfortable environment inside a commercial restaurant, apartment, or building, the exchange of air should never stop. The V in HVAC does exactly that. It moves the air inside and outside. Not only that, once the air has been drawn in, the system filters the air to make it free from dust, dirt, and allergens and provides clean and fresh air.
Once the quality of the indoor air has improved, the system will send it either for heating or cooling. Plus, the HVAC system will also keep the humidity in the air at an optimum level. After the air quality has been improved, the system will then direct the fresh and clean air into the home or facility.
The History of HVAC
Today, we can install and use HVAC systems for comfortable living or working. But it was not like this always. Before the first version of these systems came into being, people were used to steamy summers and chilly winters. The concept for a centralized HVAC took birth in the mid-1800s.
Digging into the ancient history of Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese tell us that the very early concept of the HVAC is not new. Though these people did not actually come up with a system, they did use some techniques to keep the air cool or warm. For example, the Egyptians hung reeds in windows to make the air cool in a natural way. Later, the Greeks and Romans invented the idea of using aqueducts. This is from where the cooling and heating water pipe systems in cities were inspired. The Chinese gave the fan to the world. In the Victorian era, various aspects of unique architecture were developed for cross-ventilation.
The 1800s:
The credit for developing the modern HVAC system goes to Dr. John Gorrie. First, he put forward the idea of keeping cities cool during the summer months. Then, he designed a system to perform this specific function. With the use of cooling coils, he succeeded in bringing humidity levels under control. After getting the device patented, he further worked on finetune the system to create an automatic humidity and temperature-controlled system.
The 1900s:
Dr. John’s idea continued to improve in the decades that followed. In 1904, a refrigeration system was developed and used to cool the entire Missouri State Building. After this, the cooling and heating systems were installed in public theatres. This was a remarkable development.
Modern HVAC:
While HVAC systems were used by commercial buildings, homeowners found it out of their budget. In 1932, H.H. Schultz and J.Q. Sherman designed an affordable unit for use in homes. The new HVAC unit was less expensive and could easily fit in window sills. After this development, the use of HVAC systems expanded in homes and apartments. By the 1960s, most homes were using at least some form of HVAC with central air conditioning.
Today, we have the most advanced versions of the early heating and cooling systems. The best part is that today’s HVAC can be installed in a way that it remains hidden while offering completely soundless heating and cooling. All you need to do is switch a button and the entire system starts to work.
Types of HVAC Systems
HVAC systems have a complicated design. In fact, it is available in so many different types that choosing the right one for your restaurant or commercial building can prove to be quite daunting. Given below are some of the most common types of commercial HVAC systems you will come across.
Split HVAC System:
The system is so named because of the way it is installed in a commercial building. Key parts of this HVAC include air handler (indoor unit), condenser (outdoor unit), thermostat, filtration system, and ductwork. Each of these components performs a specific and important role.
The Split HVAC System can be further categorized into Single-Split and Multi-Split. The Single Split HVAC is a good match for small commercial spaces such as cafes, shops and offices. The Multi-Split HVAC is designed and installed in a way that keeps all the indoor units connected to one external unit. This type of HVAC is ideal for large commercial spaces such as restaurants, large kitchens, retail shops, etc. The Multi-Split System needs to be installed by professionals because the HVAC design involves a lot of pipework and correct installation.
If you want to have your restaurant fitted with a Split HVAC System, feel free to reach out to Hood Builders in Denver, CO. We offer professional HVAC installation for a wide range of hospitality businesses.
VR or VRF System:
The Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) or Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) system is different in terms of the heating and cooling element it uses in its design. This type of HVAC uses a refrigerant and is perfect for a range of medium and large commercial spaces. The VRV system can be further categorized into Heat Pump Systems and Heat Recovery Systems.
The VR or VRF HVAC costs more than the Split HVAC. But the installation of the system is easy and quick. If the buildings have occupants, they can be set up without causing them any inconvenience.
CAV and VAV Systems:
These are two different types of HVAC systems. A Constant Air Volume (CAV) system uses a compressor to bring the temperature in a building to the desired level. If you operate a commercial establishment where you need constant ventilation for a long period, this HVAC system is the most suitable. The Variable Air Volume (VAV) HVAC uses a compressor for ventilation as well as to regulate the flow of the refrigerant to achieve the desired temperature level. This type of HVAC is ideal for buildings where the needs for heating and cooling are very consistent. It offers high-quality control for humidity and temperature.
The right type of HVAC for your restaurant, retail shop, or commercial building depends on what exactly your air conditioning needs. If you need expert help for the selection of the most ideal HVAC for your facility, consult with one of our experts at the Hood Builder in Denver, Colorado.
HVAC Installation
Before the installation procedure can begin, the team of technicians will need to conduct an inspection of your restaurant or commercial building to determine what your exact air conditioning needs are.
Key factors that the technicians will need to consider in this regard include the size of your facility, quality of the electrical system, number of doors and windows and condition of the ductwork. Depending on the size of your restaurant, the installation process may take one to several days. Removing the old equipment can extend the duration of the new HVAC system installation.
Installing a commercial HVAC system is a detailed process, which involves electricity, plumbing, and natural gas systems. Apart from obtaining a city permit, the HVAC system needs to clear inspection as well. At the Hood Builder, provide professional HVAC installation for restaurants and hospitality businesses. Our technicians are highly skilled and well-trained in the installation of various designs and types of HVAC systems in large and small commercial spaces. Post-installation, our professionals will perform a thorough quality check to make sure nothing is missing – before the system is started to function for the first time.
Hood Builder professionals follow up again to check if your new HVAC system is doing its job with maximum efficiency. The technician will go ahead and fix it quickly if there are minor issues or adjustments are required. If you are in search of an HVAC contractor that is highly experienced and always strives for perfection, Hood Builder is the company you should partner with.
HVAC Maintenance
Proper maintenance is one surefire way of extending the life of your commercial HVAC and avoiding expensive repairs.
Maintenance and repairs are not the same. Most HVAC repairs are needed when the system doesn’t get timely maintenance. Based on the type of your system, you may have to conduct maintenance work either annually or twice per year. By doing so, you will have the system working effectively and efficiently – and the environment inside your building will remain highly comfortable.
Routine HVAC maintenance includes:
- Thorough cleaning of coils, drains, and elements
- Inspecting and changing filters
- Inspecting connections and motor operations
- Checking the thermostat functionality
- Monitoring refrigerant pressure
- Testing safety controls
- Lubricating moving parts
- Cleaning and removal of debris
If your restaurant HVAC system is due for maintenance, do not ignore or delay it anymore. Reach out to Hood Builder to schedule your maintenance so that the entire system functions exactly as it should.
HVAC Repair
If the HVAC system fails to do its job effectively or it stops functioning altogether, you are going to need a repair service.
The repairs needed to restore your HVAC system can be minor or costly. It is only after a close inspection that the technician will be able to identify the exact problem in the system and then suggest the ideal solution. Dirty or blocked air filters are common issues that can reduce the efficiency of the system. Or, your HVAC system may have bigger issues. For example, there may be problems with the compressor or the refrigerant element.
When it is time for HVAC repair, you may notice some common signs. Loud and unusual noises coming from the air conditioner means the culprit lies in the cooling system. Insufficient airflow, high humidity, water leaks, and bad odors are some other signs that mean it is repair time.
If you are experiencing problems with your HVAC system, reach out to Hood Builder for the necessary repair works. Our technicians will find the problem swiftly and suggest the most ideal solution.
HVAC Design
The role of an HVAC design engineer is to build refrigeration and heating systems for commercial and residential buildings.
To design a highly efficient HVAC system, the engineer takes a number of critical factors into account. These include heat loss, heat gain, site orientation, air infiltration, etc. The professional apply various principles of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics to create and develop a top-quality system.
If you are setting up a new restaurant or a commercial establishment, you should never ignore the design of your new HVAC system. A lot of research thought and planning goes into the building of the perfect HVAC design for a facility or building. If you plan your heating and cooling system to perform perfectly well, it is the design where you need to start. Perfect design means your HVAC will be sized properly and the distribution system will function with precision. At Hood Builders, we adhere to industry-standard protocols for HVAC design.
Our design engineers will measure how much heating and cooling your restaurant facility needs, select the right equipment as per your budget and develop a distribution system that is the most ideal.
Talk to an HVAC System Specialist
When it comes to installing or designing a commercial HVAC for your restaurant, you should always rely on an HVAC contractor which has several years of experience as well as specialization in this field.
For the last 25 years, Hood Builder has been catering to the HVAC needs of a wide range of restaurants in and near Denver, CO. Whether you are in need of professional HVAC installation, design, or maintenance and repair, our highly trained technicians have you fully covered. We also provide restaurant construction, restaurant remodeling, commercial kitchen design, hood installation, etc. You can get in touch with our office via a phone call or an email.
Thank you for suggesting that we need timely maintenance for our furnace. This is something we never do. Our furnace is not working as well as it used to at our offices because of low heating issues. We will contact a commercial HVAC professional by tomorrow.