The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in a commercial facility is composed of several key components that must be properly maintained for the system to function correctly. Understanding the components of a commercial HVAC system and how they all work together is essential for facilities management professionals. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what components make up a commercial HVAC system and how they can be managed effectively.
Understanding the Components of Commercial HVAC Systems
The components of a commercial HVAC system include an air handler, ductwork, thermostat, evaporator coils, condenser coils, refrigerant, air filters, and the compressor.
The air handler is the main unit of the system and is typically located in an interior space, such as a basement or closet. It houses the blower, evaporator coil, condenser coil, and filters. The blower is responsible for circulating the air throughout the building, while the evaporator and condenser coils help to cool the air. The air filters keep the air clean and free from dust, dirt, and other particles.
The ductwork distributes the air from the air handler throughout the building. It is connected to the air handler and is made up of a series of connected ducts. The ductwork helps to regulate the temperature and air flow throughout the building.
The thermostat is used to control the temperature and is typically located in a visible area, such as a hallway or lobby. It allows the user to set the desired temperature and then automatically adjusts the air handler to maintain the desired temperature.
Refrigerant is a chemical agent that helps to cool the air in the system. It is typically found in a liquid form and is circulated through the evaporator and condenser coils.
Finally, the compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant which helps to cool the air within the system.
The Role of Facilities Management in Commercial HVAC Systems
Facilities management professionals are responsible for ensuring that the components of a commercial HVAC system are properly maintained and operated. This includes regularly inspecting and cleaning the air filters, checking the refrigerant levels, and ensuring that the blower and compressor are functioning correctly.
It is also important for facilities management professionals to monitor the energy usage of the commercial HVAC system and look for ways to increase efficiency. This may include installing energy-efficient thermostats and replacing old, inefficient components with newer, more efficient ones.
Finally, facilities management professionals should be aware of any potential issues within the HVAC system that may need to be addressed. This includes checking for leaks in the ductwork, inspecting the air handler for any signs of wear and tear, and inspecting the evaporator and condenser coils for any signs of corrosion.
Conclusion
A commercial HVAC system is composed of several key components, including an air handler, ductwork, thermostat, evaporator coils, condenser coils, refrigerant, air filters, and the compressor. Understanding how these components all work together and how to maintain them is essential for facilities management professionals. By regularly inspecting and maintaining the components of a commercial HVAC system, facilities management professionals can ensure that the system is running efficiently and effectively.
