The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Commercial HVAC for 4S Shop

28 Apr.,2025

 

The Ultimate Guide To Commercial HVAC Systems

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Types of Industrial HVAC Systems

Selecting the right commercial HVAC system depends on factors like building size, layout, energy efficiency goals, and budget. It’s essential to to consult with HVAC professionals to determine the most suitable system for your specific commercial space prior to making any decisions.

The table below evaluates the most common types of industrial HVAC systems, their characteristics, and recommended use. 

Type Defining Characteristics Recommended Use Single-Split Systems ➡️ Split into single indoor unit (furnace or air handler) and single outdoor unit (condenser)

➡️ Controlled by single thermostat

➡️ Simple and cost-effective

☑️ Perfect for small commercial spaces such as individual offices, small retail shops, or server rooms where a single room or zone requires heating and cooling

☑️ Requires ductwork

Multi-Split Systems  ➡️ Multiple indoor units are connected to a single outdoor unit

➡️ Reduced outdoor footprint

➡️ Allow for zoned temperature control

☑️ An excellent choice for medium to large commercial spaces, including restaurants and office suites

☑️ Requires ductwork

Packaged Rooftop Units (RTUs) ➡️ All HVAC components packaged into a single unit

➡️ Compact system, making them easy to install and maintain

☑️ Frequently used for single-storey commercial spaces, such as retail stores, restaurants, and small office buildings

☑️ Requires ductwork

Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) ➡️ Allow for zoned temperature control

➡️ Two types: Heat Pump VRF (for heating or cooling) and Heat Recovery VRF (for heating and cooling simultaneously)

➡️ Highly flexible and energy efficient

☑️ Best for medium to large commercial buildings with varying cooling and heating needs, such as hotels, hospitals, or mixed-use developments

☑️ Requires ductwork

Air-Source Heat Pumps ➡️ One outdoor unit with one or more indoor units

➡️ Provide both heating and cooling

➡️ Allow for multi-zone temperature control

➡️ Cost-effective and energy efficient

☑️ Small commercial spaces

☑️ No ductwork required

Boilers ➡️ Uses fuel to heat a fluid that is pumped through a hydronic heating system

➡️ Heated fluid is distributed through radiators or in-floor heating loops

➡️ Zoning capabilities

☑️ Recommended for large commercial spaces, such as warehouses, factories, hotels, and healthcare facilities that require a high heat output

☑️ No ductwork required 

How to Assess Your HVAC Needs

A well-informed assessment of your commercial HVAC needs will help you select the most appropriate system, optimize energy efficiency, and ensure your commercial space remains comfortable year-round. Here are the top considerations to help you assess your HVAC requirements:

1. Determine the Building Size and Layout

Sizing and capacity matter when choosing an industrial HVAC system, as systems that are too small or too large won’t run efficiently—they’ll just run up your bills. Measure the square footage of the area that needs climate control and consider the layout, including open spaces, separate rooms, and high-ceiling areas. This information will guide you in determining the type and capacity of the HVAC system required. 

Example: You’re the owner of a small restaurant. Your establishment has a total floor area of 2,000 square feet, with a dining area and an enclosed kitchen. The dining area is open with high ceilings, while the kitchen requires efficient ventilation and cooling due to heat generated by cooking equipment.
  1. Dining Area: Given the spacious, open layout and high ceilings, it’s essential to choose an HVAC unit with sufficient cooling capacity to maintain a comfortable temperature during peak dining hours. A multi-split or VRF system with zoning capabilities may be a good choice to ensure even cooling in this area.
  2. Kitchen: The kitchen demands a separate solution, focusing on ventilation and cooling to handle heat generated by stoves, ovens, and other equipment. A specialized exhaust system and HVAC unit designed for commercial kitchens are necessary to maintain air quality and comfort.

In this example, by analyzing the size and layout of your restaurant, you’ve determined that a combination of HVAC solutions is necessary to meet the distinct needs of different areas within the same building. This tailored approach ensures efficient climate control for your specific requirements, whether it’s maintaining a pleasant dining atmosphere or providing a comfortable workspace for kitchen staff.

???? Read more: How to Calculate What Size of HVAC Unit You Need

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2. Consider Zoning Needs

When installing an industrial HVAC system, you also need to consider the need for zone-specific temperature control. Assuming you want this, you will need to install dampers and programmable thermostats to manage temperatures. 

When evaluating commercial HVAC zoning possibilities, we recommend implementing the following to ensure the best results:

  • Don’t create zones larger than one floor
  • Install individual thermostats in rooms used most often
  • Group rooms with similar heating and cooling loads

3. Identify Your Local Climate

The geographical location of your business is an important factor to consider. Certain types of commercial HVAC systems won’t perform well in freezing conditions while others will excel. Check local climate data and consider variables like seasonal temperature extremes, humidity levels, and the number of heating and cooling days.

4. Analyze Occupancy and Usage

Take into account the number of people who occupy your commercial space and their activities. Spaces with high occupancy density, like restaurants or conference rooms, may require additional ventilation. Poor air quality affects productivity and can make guests uncomfortable, so ensuring air quality in commercial HVAC systems is a non-negotiable.

Also, consider whether your business operates during extended hours, as this affects HVAC usage and energy consumption.

Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Efficiency is at the heart of a well-managed commercial HVAC system. Maximizing energy efficiency not only reduces operational costs, but also minimizes your environmental footprint.

Here are the HVAC basics when it comes to sustainability: 

Upgrade to High-Efficiency Equipment

When shopping for industrial HVAC units, always look for the ENERGY STAR certification label. Their blue star logo signifies a product has met strict energy-efficient guidelines set by Natural Resources Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency. Approved models are designed to help you save money and energy while reducing your carbon footprint. 

Some HVAC systems are equipped with variable speed compressors and fans to adjust their output to match the current cooling or heating demand, which saves energy compared to fixed-speed systems. Additionally, more advanced models can recover waste heat, using it to warm other parts of your building or for water heating, increasing overall efficiency!

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Professional HVAC Installation and Maintenance

You should always leave the installation and maintenance of commercial HVAC systems to the professionals. Proper care is paramount for the performance and longevity of your unit.

Here’s what you can expect from professional industrial HVAC installation at LG Home Comfort:

Commercial HVAC Installation Process

  • Custom Design Options: LG Home Comfort offers custom designs for specific HVAC systems, tailored to the needs of your business.
  • Initial Assessment: An HVAC technician will measure and assess your space, then calculate the appropriate unit size based on their findings. 
  • Unit Placement: The indoor and outdoor units are strategically placed based on the system type and the building’s layout.
  • Ductwork Installation: If needed, ductwork is installed or modified to distribute conditioned air effectively throughout the space.
  • Electrical and Plumbing Connections: Wiring and plumbing connections are made to ensure the HVAC system’s functionality.

Post-Installation Checks 

  • Testing and Balancing: The system is thoroughly tested to verify that it operates correctly, including checking for refrigerant leaks, air balancing, and safety tests. 
  • Commissioning: A final check and commissioning process are performed to ensure the system’s performance meets the design specifications and provides optimal heating and cooling.
  • User Training: The last step in the process involves ensuring you know how to operate the commercial HVAC system for peak efficiency and results.

The Importance of Maintenance and Preventative Care

Regular maintenance and preventative care significantly extends the lifespan of your HVAC system, making it less prone to breakdowns and costly repairs.

Of all the HVAC basics a business owner needs to know, this is one of the most important.

Scheduled, professional HVAC maintenance can improve air quality, maintain your system’s warranty coverage, reduce your energy consumption, energy bills, and carbon emissions, and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

As with installation, commercial HVAC maintenance should be left to the professionals due to their specialized training and industry expertise. DIY efforts often lack the knowledge required to perform thorough inspections, diagnose complex issues, and calibrate equipment effectively. Professionals possess a deep understanding of HVAC systems, ensuring they can identify and rectify problems before they escalate. They also have access to the right tools and equipment to maintain safety and performance standards.

By prioritizing professional and consistent maintenance, you’ll secure the long-term performance of your commercial HVAC system, fostering a productive and energy-efficient workspace.

Schedule Professional Commercial HVAC Maintenance

Common Industrial HVAC Problems

Business owners need to stay on top of these common commercial HVAC issues to prevent disruptions in operations, discomfort and inefficiencies from happening.

  • Poor Airflow: Inadequate air circulation can result from clogged filters, blocked ducts, or faulty fans, leading to uneven heating or cooling.
  • Refrigerant Leaks: An air conditioning failing to do its job is often attributable to refrigerant leaks. 
  • Faulty Thermostats: Inaccurate thermostats can lead to temperature discrepancies, wasting energy and affecting occupant comfort.
  • Ignition Issues: Your furnace not igniting properly (and therefore not heating your building) could be the result of fuel supply problems or a faulty ignitor. Neither of these are things you should try to fix yourself. 
  • Odd Noises: Loud banging, clanging, or buzzing is your cue to call a technician. These are often the cause of issues with fans, motors, or other components. 

The Cost of Commercial HVAC Systems

It’s no secret that commercial HVAC units are expensive, with prices ranging from $6,000 to $50,000. This variability is based on several factors:

  • Unit size and capacity
  • Brand, type, and efficiency rating 
  • Additional components to cater to your building’s heating and cooling needs
  • Labour costs and installation fees 
  • Market competition in your area

The good news is that commercial HVAC systems are built to last a minimum of 15 years. This can easily be extended to 20 years and beyond with regular maintenance.

Finding Reliable Commercial HVAC Contractors

Now that you understand the value of professional maintenance and installation, you’re probably wondering how to evaluate HVAC companies. Selecting the right service provider is critical for the long-term health and efficiency of your HVAC system, so we recommend you choose one based on the following factors: 

Licensing & Certification

You want the best of the best when it comes to installing and maintaining your commercial HVAC system. A license, bond, and insurance will give you peace of mind that they know what they’re doing. You can also check for certification from industry organizations as a sign of expertise and professionalism.

References & Reviews

Ask for references from past clients and read online reviews. Positive feedback and a strong reputation are indicative of a trustworthy contractor.

Industry Experience

We recommend choosing an HVAC company with a proven track record of working on commercial HVAC systems. Experience with similar systems to yours is a valuable asset.

Partner With Commercial HVAC Experts at LG Home Comfort

When it comes to your commercial HVAC needs, trust the expertise of a family-owned HVAC company with a legacy of excellence.

At LG Home Comfort, we’re proud to be a Canadian-owned and operated business with decades of experience in the industry. Our dedicated team specializes in serving the unique requirements of commercial buildings, ensuring optimal climate control and energy efficiency.

We do everything—from property assessment to custom design, installation, maintenance and repairs—so that you can focus on what you do best; running a business. As one of the most reliable HVAC companies in Ontario, it’s our mission to always be available, 24/7/365, so that your operations aren’t impacted by unforeseen equipment breakdowns. 

A Guide to the Types of HVAC Systems for Commercial Buildings

What Types of Commercial HVAC Systems Exist?

There are many different types of commercial HVAC systems available today. As an owner or manager, the different designs and variables can make it confusing to determine which is optimal for you. This blog post will explain the HVAC system types commercial building owners and managers need to know. 

What should you consider when shopping for an HVAC system for your commercial building?

To choose an HVAC system, you must consider many factors, such as building design, air quality, and energy efficiency. Some heating systems and air conditioners are more effective in larger buildings, and a one-room space may benefit from a different system than a space with many small rooms.

The local climate may also determine which type of commercial HVAC system is appropriate. Other considerations include your budget and how long you expect the system to last.

Commercial HVAC System Types, Advantages, and Disadvantages 

The sheer volume of choices of HVAC units available can be daunting. For example, if you want a split system, do you need a single split system or a multi-split system? Read on for some helpful guidance on how to make this critical decision.

Single-split System

A single split HVAC system has one compressor, an evaporator coil, a furnace, and a refrigerant.

Who it’s right for: Because they heat and cool individual rooms, single split systems are effective air conditioning solutions for smaller commercial buildings and server rooms.


What it’s not designed for: Single-spilt systems are not designed for larger buildings with multiple rooms.


Multi-split System

A multi-split system operates similarly to a single one, except that multiple indoor units hook up to a single outdoor unit.

Who it’s right for: These are best for large commercial properties.

What’s it’s not designed for: These systems are not meant for small commercial spaces.


Variable Air Volume (VAV)

VAV systems create constant, comfortable temperatures by varying airflow.

Who it’s right for: VAVs are ideal for multi-room spaces, as they allow different areas of the building to be separately heated and cooled. Small offices are one example of a building that can benefit from VAVs.

What it’s not designed for: VAVs are not for single space buildings.


Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF)

VRF (variable refrigerant flow), also known as VRV (variable refrigerant volume), refers to systems that use a refrigerant as a heating and cooling medium. VRF systems move refrigerants to the zone within a building that needs to be heated or cooled and are highly effective and energy-efficient.

Who it’s right for: VRF systems are suitable in a variety of commercial spaces, including mixed-use facilities.

What it’s not designed for: They are not meant for larger indoor assembly spaces.


Constant Air Volume (CAV)

CAVs provide constant airflow and regulate the building’s climate by adjusting the air supply temperature.

Who it’s right for: CAVs work best in spaces with large open areas and few windows, such as an exhibition hall.

What it’s not designed for: Buildings with multiple heating and cooling zones are not optimal for CAVs.


Heat Pump

A heat pump system can provide heating and cooling by removing heat from the air and moving it inside or outside, depending on whether a building needs to be heated or cooled.

Who it’s right for: Heat pumps work well in various settings such as schools and sports facilities.

What it’s not designed for: Heat pumps are not intended for colder climates with temperatures below 40 degrees.


Let us help you find the right HVAC system for your commercial building!

United Mechanical Services has decades of experience maintaining, repairing, retrofitting, and installing different types of HVAC systems for commercial businesses. While air quality depends on more than your building’s ventilation system, it’s a significant factor for keeping the air clean. Proper airflow and indoor air quality maintenance are essentials to the health of your building and its occupants, and we hope you realize the extent of this importance. 

We invite you to read more about the maintenance and HVAC-related questions, issues, and topics that we discuss. In addition to HVAC design and installation, we provide a full range of maintenance and repair services to keep your HVAC systems working. Visit our blog for more helpful information about HVAC systems.

For more Commercial HVAC for 4S Shopinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.