An outdated commercial HVAC setup can increase your energy bill while reducing the comfort of your home or office. If your building is always too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter but your energy bill keeps going up, it’s time to consider replacement HVAC systems from Hatfield Heating & Air Conditioning. But what do you look for? HVAC technology has changed immensely over the past few years, so here’s our guide to selecting the right HVAC system for your needs.
Step 1: Know Your Building’s Requirements
To consider replacement HVAC systems, you have to know the demands of your building, which is especially important for commercial spaces. There’s a big difference in system requirements for a multi-story office, a retail complex, or a manufacturing facility. Consider how many people occupy each area and at what times of day. Some spaces, such as conference rooms or auditoriums, might need rapid environmental changes when they are used. Older buildings might need infrastructure updates to support advanced automation. Complex floor plans with multiple zones will need a more sophisticated control strategy.
Step 2: Explore HVAC Automation
There are many smart HVAC solutions, from simple programmable thermostats to extensive building management systems (BMS). Choosing the right one depends on building size, budget, and how much control you’d like to maintain.
Basic Programmable Controls
Best for: Small buildings or budgets.
Features: Simple options (reduce heating at night, schedule temperature changes, etc.); minimal integration with sensors.
Pros: Affordable and easy to install; a step up from manual thermostats.
Cons: Limited performance analytics; less dynamic adjustment to real-time changes.
Networked Controllers and Sensors
Best for: Mid-size buildings or companies wanting more control.
Features: Networked thermostats, carbon monoxide and humidity sensors, and the ability to customize settings by zone.
Pros: Provides valuable data; better occupant comfort; moderate implementation cost.
Cons: May need retrofitting work; software might be less robust than full-scale solutions.
Full-Scale Building Management Systems (BMS)
Best for: Large facilities or organizations with complex needs.
Features: Real-time monitoring of HVAC, security, lighting, and more; centralized dashboard with analytics; advanced automation features.
Pros: Comprehensive control; detailed insights; superior energy efficiency over time.
Cons: High upfront cost; longer implementation timeline; might require specialized staff for ongoing maintenance.
Step 3: Decide Key Features and Priorities
Customers often ask which features they need in an automation system. The answer depends mostly on your building’s needs. Some features, however, can be effective for many situations, including:
Zoning: Different areas have their own heating and cooling requirements, and zoning ensures each area is optimized. Look for systems that support multiple zones with real-time controls and easy interfaces.
Remote Management and Monitoring: Facility managers often travel frequently to oversee multiple sites. Remote access lets you adjust settings of any site from anywhere. Be sure the solutions you choose have mobile apps or web dashboards, secure cloud connections, and alerts for system anomalies.
Integration With Other Building Systems: Your HVAC platform should offer seamless integration if you want to automate lighting, security, or fire safety. Look for open protocols, an active developer community, and manufacturer support for multiple systems.
Scalability: If you plan to add floors or rooms or expand your operations, you need a system that can handle growth. You’ll need modular hardware, a vendor known for continual updates, and flexible software licenses.
Step 4: Understand Building Size and System Options
The size of your property plays a major role in determining the complexity and cost of your HVAC system. Bigger isn’t always better. A smaller building might not benefit need an enterprise-grade solution. It could be too complex for your needs. On the other hand, an underpowered system in a large facility just won’t work efficiently.
Step 5: Budgeting Basics and Return on Investment
HVAC automation often requires a large upfront price tag, so estimate how quickly you’ll recoup these costs. Be sure to request estimates of upfront and ongoing costs. Factor in variables such as your utility rates, typical usage, and potential expansions.
Contact Hatfield for Replacement HVAC Systems
Whether you need commercial or residential HVAC services, Hatfield Heating & Air Conditioning can help. We have everything from the smallest residential to the most complex and automated commercial HVAC systems available. Contact us today for more information or for 24/7 HVAC services.