When it comes to HVAC design for commercial buildings, there are many factors to consider. While many business owners will be primarily concerned with upfront costs, the long-term considerations are also very important. When you are considering HVAC design for your new heating installation, it is critical that you also consider the installation cost, the operating cost, and the expected lifespan of the system you are installing. All of these factors will influence how much the system costs you in the long run.
Here are some of the types of heating systems to consider in your HVAC design:
- Steam: This is one of the oldest types of heating systems around. A boiler fueled by oil or gas creates steam that is transported throughout your building via pipes. Disadvantages of this type include that they are slow to get started because of the time needed to get the steam heated up, and they can be inefficient.
- Hot water: This type of system is similar to the steam system, except that the boiler heats up liquid water that is transported throughout the building and into radiators.
- Natural energy: There are several types of natural energy heating available, including solar and geothermal systems. While the initial cost of installing these systems can be high, they can be very cost efficient over time to operate and maintain.
- Heat pump: Heat pumps can be used for both heating and cooling. They are extremely energy-efficient, except in extreme climates where below-average winter temperatures occur frequently.
Your HVAC professional will carefully consider the size and location of your business, as well as your budget when completing an HVAC design for your new install.