Building owners and managers constantly look for new ways to cut cooling costs. However, the compressor is one of the most important yet often overlooked elements for the energy-efficient operation of commercial air conditioning systems.
The following actions detail how decision-makers can cut cooling costs and maximize their commercial air conditioning units by considering a few compressor-related aspects.
Selecting Energy-Efficient Technologies For Your Commercial HVAC System
Over the years, leading compressor manufacturers like Carrier, Carlyle, Copeland, Trane, York, Bitzer, Frascold, and Hitachi have developed various technologies that can make a massive difference in the efficiency, sustainability, and applicability of commercial air conditioning systems. The top commercial HVAC compressor technologies are:
- Screw technology
Screw compressors are available in oil-injected and oil-free versions. While oil-injected screw compressors require a smaller initial investment and are easy to install, they’re less energy efficient than oil-free models.
In addition to being more energy efficient, oil-free commercial screw compressors are smaller in size and lightweight, deliver better air quality, and have a longer service life along with a smoother, quieter operation when properly maintained.
Oil-injected and oil-free screw compressors can be equipped with variable speed technology, which ensures superior part-load efficiency and significant energy savings.
- Centrifugal technology
Designed for easy application and reliable operation, centrifugal compressors deliver superior efficiency, particularly in commercial air conditioning applications that require constant high volumes of conditioned air. Besides outstanding energy efficiency, these compressors have a long life span, facilitate compliance with national energy codes, and can help reduce the carbon footprint. A centrifugal compressor with multiple stages of compression can help generate additional savings, whether it operates at part or full load. - Reciprocating technology
Although a conventional reciprocating compressor isn’t as efficient as other types of compressors, water-cooled models are some of the most energy-efficient products available nowadays. The fact that they can be used in different part- and full-load applications makes them versatile enough for a wide variety of commercial and industrial cooling and refrigeration applications. - Inverter scroll technology
Available with built-in variable speed drives, which provide excellent part-load efficiency, inverter scroll compressors are able to reduce energy consumption and deliver superior efficiency and comfort levels by continuously adjusting their operation according to ambient conditions. - Economizers
When the outdoor conditions are more favorable, the economizer shuts off the compressor and allows cooler air to enter the system. In addition to increasing the cooling capacity by 20%, thus reducing the need for electrical cooling along with the costs associated, an economizer extends the life of the compressor. The integrated differential enthalpy economizer is more efficient than other types because it communicates directly with the thermostat for real-time adjustments.
Sizing Commercial Air Conditioning Units For Cost Savings
In both new and existing applications, the best way to size commercial air conditioning units correctly is to consider the type of application, monitor the current load, determine the desired temperature range, and opt for the right commercial HVAC compressor technology. This can ensure that the system can handle the simultaneous use of different areas.
Replacing Reactive with Proactive Commercial HVAC Maintenance
Periodic maintenance helps commercial HVAC compressors and air conditioning units run smoother and more efficiently. This translates into fewer breakdowns and repairs, less downtime, prolonged life span, reduced stress on start-up, quieter operation, improved heat transfer capability, reduced emissions, better indoor air quality and lower energy bills.
If you’re looking for energy-efficient compressors, Compressors Unlimited is not only a leading supplier of spare parts, accessories, and factory-new and remanufactured compressors; we have also configured our products and services to offer customers a wide range of solutions complemented with unrivaled expertise, extensive stocks, and rapid delivery.
