Key Considerations Before Installing a Commercial AC System

Getting a new AC system for your business requires a lot of thought. When you’re planning for a commercial AC system installation, you have to figure out what size you want, the features, and find someone to install the system. We’re going to take you through the considerations, show you how to choose a company to install the system, like Fusion Repair, and make the process much simpler for you.

Assessing Your Business’s Cooling Needs

Determine Your Space Size & Layout

Before you can have your commercial air conditioning installation done, you have to figure out what you need. 

• Measure your square footage and calculate how much area needs to be cooled.
• Consider your layout, factoring in things like windows, ceiling height,  partitions, and insulation, which will affect your cooling efficiency. 
• Figure out if there are areas in your business that need different cooling levels or temperatures. If so, think about putting in a system that has zoning capabilities.

Calculate the Cooling Load 

This is the BTU/hr, and it’s important for sizing your system right. A system that is too small will struggle, and one that is too big will frequently cycle. This will waste energy and wear your components out faster.  Roughly, it’s usually around 25 BTUs/sq ft. 

Other things to consider are:

• Building materials
• Sun exposure
• Occupants
• Equipment Used
• Airflow & Ventilation

Budgeting Beyond the Initial Cost

Once your system has been put in, there are going to be regular costs that you should put into your budget. These are things such as:

• Preventative maintenance
• Energy costs
• Repair costs
• Upgrade costs to save money in the long run, such as smart technology
• Replacement costs 

When you plan for these costs, you’ll find that your doing much better with your budget. 

Compliance with Local Building Codes and Permits

When you’re planning a commercial AC system installation, there are things you’l need to remember. You’ll need to have a building permit to have it installed. Once the system is installed, it will need to be inspected to make sure it complies. In addition, if the AC unit s more than 36,000 BTU/hr or three tons, you’ll also need a work permit.

Choosing the Right Installer

Many installers can put in your commercial AC, so here are some things to look at when you choose the right installer.

• Read Reviews - Read reviews of the companies that you’re considering. See what other people have thought about their services. 
• Look for Someone Local - It’s best to look for a local company. This way if you have a problem, they won’t have far to come.
• Get Multiple Quotes - It’s best to get a few quotes before you choose the company. Beware of someone very low - it may be that they’re cuting costs somewhere. 
• Ask People You Trust - If you know of other people who are business owners, ask who they’ve used. 
• Ask Questions - Before you choose the installer, ask questions that you have. This will help you gauge how knowledgeable they are. 
• Check Out the Website - What does their website look like? Does it have a lot of information on it? A blog is also another good thing to look at because it gives you an idea of how active they are on the site. 

Finding someone to install your new system isn’t something that you should do in a rush. Take your time to find the right one so you feel confident in your decision. 

Considering Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Energy efficiency is one of the best things that you should consider when you’re planning a commercial air conditioning installation. Not only is it good for the environment, but it can help you save money. Here are some tips that you can use to make your system efficient. 

• Look for EnergyStar 
• Prioritize regular maintenance, especially changing the filters
• Use smart technology
• Consider having zoned cooling

These are just a few of the things that you can do before and after installing commercial AC to help your system be efficient and last longer.

Planning for Maintenance and Longevity

It’s best to have your system maintained regularly. Not only will regular maintenance keep your system running efficiently, but it will also help your system last longer. Changing the filters, having professional maintenance regularly, and having it tuned up before the hot weather starts are all good ways to keep your system running well and find small problems before they become huge problems.

In conclusion

We hope that our guide to commercial air conditioning installation has helped you and that you know what to do when your system is ready to be replaced. Remember to have maintenance done regularly and factor that into your commercial AC system cost. When you plan for this, you won’t be surprised. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think.