When installing air conditioning, the requirements for each process differ based on what type of AC is needed. For residential AC, a central air conditioning unit is installed in the homes and apartment complexes of individual renters and owners. For commercial AC, a special installation is required as the air conditioning for commercial buildings is significantly different from residential AC.
With commercial AC, more power is needed to cool a commercial space. For the likes of businesses and office spaces, AC units need to be able to accommodate for all the body heat emanating from the staff, as well as excess space in office buildings. Moreover, with such a complex and sizable AC system, installing commercial AC requires a certain level of technical skill.
What to Expect from Commercial AC and Residential AC
When exploring the differences between commercial AC and residential AC, consider the following:
- Residential AC is Simpler to Install: Easier to install, residential AC comes with standard central units that are connected to ducts. Residential AC usually keeps the condenser outdoors and its evaporator inside the building in a basement or garage.
- Residential AC Maintenance is Inexpensive: As residential AC serves to provide air conditioning on a much smaller scale, the rates for performing residential AC maintenance are significantly lower in comparison to commercial AC.
- Commercial AC is More Effective for Businesses: While the effectiveness of commercial AC for businesses depends on the size of a space, any significant office building would want to have commercial AC installed.
- Commercial AC Requires Complex Zoning: While it may be better for businesses, commercial AC cannot be installed without adhering to certain complex zoning laws.
- Commercial AC Uses Extensive Draining: The complexity of commercial AC requires it to use an extensive draining system. While residential AC uses a condensate pan, commercial AC needs several pans with drainage pipes that ensure the water doesn’t overflow the pans during the evaporation phase.
While there are various pros and cons to each form of air conditioning, making the choice between the two really comes down to what your air conditioning needs are. While you may automatically choose residential AC for your home, you may be considering commercial AC for your business.
However, this needn’t be the case. If your business has only a few employees, perhaps residential AC would better suit your situation. Ready to learn more about commercial AC and residential AC? Call us today at 408-295-2182.