The more floors a high-rise building has, the more difficult it becomes to maintain a comfortable temperature for each level. Here’s what you need to know about how skyscraper HVAC works and which system is making waves in the industry.
High-Rise Buildings Have Unique Needs and Challenges
The options for heating and cooling systems within high-rise buildings vary in intricacy and the way they operate. When a multi-tenant residential or commercial skyscraper is built, occupant comfort and air quality must be prioritized. In other words, it’s crucial for the HVAC system in a skyscraper to accommodate many conditions throughout the entire building.
The architecture of a skyscraper is modern and has grown more sophisticated and structurally advanced. But these tall buildings also present difficulties that multiply as they increase in height. The temperature outside the building decreases while the wind speeds increase. Plus, outdoor elements have a direct impact on the ambient temperatures indoors and the outdoor HVAC equipment.
Industrial HVAC Systems Explained
Heating, ventilation, and cooling systems, or HVAC systems, are vital within industrial buildings. They help maintain sustainable temperatures and circulate fresh air throughout the building. Although there are different types of HVAC systems, they all have similar functionalities and modes of operation.
Air conditioning units lower the temperature by passing air through refrigerant or water-cooled systems, removing moisture from the atmosphere. Heating systems work in the opposite fashion of cooling systems, of course. Air passes through channels that heat the air, using either water, a radiator, coils, or gas.
Lastly, the ventilation system keeps the air clean. The air is conditioned before circulating back into the atmosphere by fans as it passes through a filtration system.
VRF Systems Are on the Rise as a Skyscraper HVAC Solution of Choice
A water distribution system in high-rise buildings is among the popular choices for HVAC solutions. However, one that’s been gaining even more popularity is the variable refrigerant flow system (VRF). VRF systems have been on the rise in the U.S. for the past 10 years, however, multi-story buildings in Japan and Europe have been utilizing them for decades.
A VRF system consists of a large condensing unit that feeds several smaller air handlers throughout the space. Because VRFs are air cooled, they not only minimize the potential of water leaks, but they also eliminate the need for chemical treatments that help prevent bacteria growth.
High-rise heating and cooling systems have been forever changed by the innovative technology of VRF. Unlike outdated and inefficient HVAC systems, the VRF model offers multiple advantages:
Energy Efficiency
Since there are no air ducts, energy isn’t wasted. In other words, VRF technology only uses the minimum amount of refrigerant so that a limited, yet plentiful amount of air circulates through each zone to satisfy the building.
Reliability
Since the operating sequence of the individual compressors is rotated, the operating hours are more balanced and the load is evenly distributed. Inverters minimize the likelihood of your compressors experiencing burnout and eliminate on/off power surges.
Simultaneous Heating and Cooling
Different zones are heated and cooled on one refrigerant piping system at any time you choose, thanks to heat recovery and flexible refrigerant flow. In turn, efficiency is increased by recycling the energy from one space and returning it to another.
Flexibility
VRF systems are unmatched in terms of adaptability, offering convenient reconfiguration of space for later use and conforming to building changes seamlessly. What’s more, there’s no need to compromise on the level of comfortability, thanks to different styles of indoor units.
Does your multi-story building need an updated HVAC system that provides comfort on every level? Give Us a Call
Why Choose React
With over 37 years of experience, React Industries is well equipped to provide a new and improved heating and cooling system for your high-rise building. Our main goal is to correctly identify the perfect HVAC solution for your needs. Our engineering and HVAC experts offer ongoing maintenance and monitoring to make sure your system is in the best condition year round.
When you require cutting-edge solutions, we are your one-stop shop. Our friendly and knowledgeable contractors offer the utmost information, quick and dependable installation that won’t halt your productivity, and accountability. For your next heating and cooling project, don’t hesitate to call the professionals at React Industries.