Commercial vs. Residential HVAC Systems: What to Get

If you’re a new property owner in Syracuse, you might have done some research on what to look for in the right HVAC system for your property. While there are two main kinds – residential and commercial – this doesn’t mean that each kind is meant exclusively for residential or commercial use only. There are several differences when it comes to the two systems, and you can even choose to get a commercial HVAC system for your Syracuse home – if it’s appropriate for the structure.

Hummingbird Heating & Cooling is here to help clear things up. As a trusted HVAC repair company in Syracuse, NY, we have years of experience with both residential and commercial HVAC systems. Hopefully, this article can give you a better idea of what system is suitable for your property.

Size and Complexity

The biggest difference when it comes to the two kinds of HVAC systems are their size and complexity. Commercial HVAC systems are much larger. This is to keep up with the demands of commercial spaces that require more power to heat and cool. Typically, the larger the building, the larger the HVAC system needs to be.

The size of your property will be a major factor for what HVAC system to get in Syracuse. It’s always best to consult with an HVAC company in Syracuse, NY to get their expert opinion on what system will be best at achieving your goals for the property.

With the larger size, commercial HVAC systems also have more components and parts to it. A normal residential HVAC system will have the following components:

• Compressor

• Condenser

• Evaporator

• Metering device

• Blower fans

• Dampers

• Ductwork

For commercial systems, there are additional parts such as cooling towers, water pumps, air handling units, solenoid switches, and economizers. These extra parts are what commercial HVAC systems need to be able to heat and cool large buildings like warehouses. Solenoid switches and air handling units also make it possible for commercial HVAC systems to control the climate in separate rooms, letting you set different temperatures per area.

When it comes the ventilation and ductwork, the two are quite different. Some residential HVAC systems can be built without ductwork. These ductless mini-split systems don’t require ductwork and use wall-mounted units to heat or cool a space. Commercial HVACs cannot be made ductless.

Typically, the ductwork of commercial HVAC systems is also larger and louder. So, these must be factored in when choosing what HVAC system to get in Syracuse.

Location

The location of your HVAC system will also be different if you get a residential unit vs. a commercial unit. Residential HVAC systems are typically located outside the home like in the backyard.

Commercial HVAC systems on the other hand are normally placed on the roof of a building because of their size. Commercial HVAC systems are also louder than residential HVACs because of its size and power. That’s why these kinds of systems are placed far away from the occupants, so they don’t disturb those inside.

Installation

The installation for the two types will also differ. Normally, residential HVAC systems are single, stand-alone units that can’t be modified or expanded. For split residential HVAC systems, some parts of the system don’t rest in the same location. An example of this would be having the furnace in the home while the condenser of the air conditioner sits outside.

Commercial HVAC systems are manufactured as modular units. Even after installation, the system allows for easy maintenance and upgrade. These systems are housed in a cabinet known as a packaged unit. Commercial HVACs allows for parts to be added or taken away to change the heating and cooling needs of each building.

Consult with experts at Hummingbird!

These are just some of the major differences between commercial and residential units. When making the final decision for what HVAC system to get, it’s best to get the advice of a professional HVAC company in Syracuse, NY like Hummingbird Heating & Cooling. We have the experience and training to help you pick out the perfect HVAC, taking into consideration the size and layout of your property, materials used, and specific cooling and heating needs you have.

Your HVAC is a major investment, so don’t leave anything to chance and get the best people for the job. Call Hummingbird Heating & Cooling today for all your HVAC needs. Whether it’s installation, repair, maintenance, or cleaning, we’re here for you 24/7.