Common Types of HVAC Systems for Commercial Buildings
Every commercial building depends on efficient commercial HVAC systems to maintain comfort, manage energy costs, and control indoor air quality. The right system not only heats or cools effectively but also improves performance, lowers energy expenses, and supports long-term building reliability.
Choosing between different HVAC system types depends on building size, layout, occupancy patterns, and ventilation needs. Below, the commercial HVAC experts at Estes Services outline the most common types of HVAC systems used in office buildings and commercial properties throughout Metro Atlanta.
For professional design, installation, or maintenance, explore our commercial HVAC services at EstesAir.com.
Single-Split Systems
Single-split systems are one of the most widely used HVAC systems for commercial buildings. These systems include:
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One indoor unit (air handler and evaporator coil)
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One outdoor unit (compressor and condenser)
This type of air conditioning system is ideal for small commercial spaces such as:
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Retail shops
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Restaurants
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Small office suites
Single-split systems are cost effective and simple to install. Because each unit operates independently, they allow basic zoning flexibility. However, larger buildings may require multiple split HVAC systems to maintain proper heating and cooling performance.
If your commercial property needs targeted comfort control, learn more about our commercial HVAC installation services at EstesAir.com.
Multi-Split Systems
Multi-split systems connect multiple indoor units to one outdoor unit. This setup allows multiple zones to heat or cool independently while using a single condenser.
Benefits include:
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Improved energy savings
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Better humidity level control
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Reduced energy costs
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Fewer rooftop or exterior units
Multi-split configurations are often compared to ductless mini split systems, and they are especially useful in medium-sized office buildings or professional suites where flexibility is important.
These systems transfer heat efficiently and allow occupants to control temperatures in separate areas without impacting other zones.
Ductless Mini Split Systems
Ductless mini split systems are increasingly popular in commercial applications where ductwork installation is difficult or expensive.
These systems:
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Use indoor wall-mounted units
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Connect to an outdoor compressor
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Do not require traditional duct systems
Ductless mini split systems help control indoor air quality, reduce energy costs, and allow precise zone control.
They are ideal for:
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Renovated office buildings
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Add-on spaces
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Medical offices
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Conference rooms
By eliminating duct losses, these systems improve efficiency and help reduce operational expenses.
VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) Systems
VRF systems are one of the most advanced commercial HVAC solutions available today.
These systems:
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Use variable refrigerant flow to transfer heat
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Allow simultaneous heating and cooling
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Connect multiple indoor units to one or more outdoor units
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Provide precise temperature control
VRF systems are ideal for:
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Large office buildings
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Hotels
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Schools
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Mixed-use facilities
Because they absorb heat from one zone and redistribute it where needed, VRF systems improve energy efficiency and reduce long-term energy costs.
If your building requires scalable, high-performance heating ventilation and air control, VRF may be the right commercial HVAC system.
Rooftop Units (RTUs) and Packaged Systems
Rooftop units, also known as packaged systems, are centralized air conditioning systems that combine all air conditioning components into one cabinet.
RTUs include:
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Compressor
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Heat exchanger
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Air filter system
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Blower motor
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Cooling coil
Installed on rooftops, these systems simplify maintenance and keep mechanical equipment out of occupied areas.
They are commonly used in:
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Shopping centers
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Warehouses
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Industrial facilities
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Large retail stores
Because rooftop units integrate heating and cooling into one centralized air conditioning system, they are efficient and easy to service.
Explore commercial HVAC maintenance plans at EstesAir.com to keep your rooftop systems operating at peak performance.
Chiller Systems
Chillers are powerful commercial HVAC systems designed for large buildings with high cooling demands.
There are two primary types:
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Air-cooled chillers
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Water-cooled chillers
Chillers cool water, which then circulates through air handlers to cool the air inside the building.
They are ideal for:
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Hospitals
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Universities
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Manufacturing facilities
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Large office buildings
While installation costs may be higher, chiller systems offer long-term energy savings and improved efficiency for large-scale applications.
Heat Pump Systems for Commercial Buildings
Heat pump systems are another energy-efficient commercial HVAC solution. These systems:
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Transfer heat instead of generating it
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Can both heat and cool
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Improve overall efficiency
Heat pump systems are often used in moderate climates and can significantly reduce energy costs when properly sized.
How to Choose the Right Commercial HVAC System
When evaluating HVAC systems for commercial buildings, consider:
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Building size and layout
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Occupancy levels
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Indoor air quality requirements
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Energy efficiency goals
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Long-term operational costs
The right commercial HVAC solution should:
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Control indoor air quality
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Reduce energy expenses
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Provide consistent heating and cooling
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Be scalable for future expansion
At Estes Services, our commercial HVAC contractors design tailored systems that match your building's operational demands.
Learn more about our full commercial HVAC services, installation, and preventative maintenance programs at EstesAir.com.
Partner with Estes Services for Commercial HVAC
Since 1949, Estes Services has delivered professional commercial HVAC services throughout Metro Atlanta. From centralized air conditioning systems to advanced ductless mini split systems, our team provides complete system design, installation, repair, and maintenance.
We focus on:
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Energy efficiency
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System reliability
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Indoor air quality
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Long-term cost savings
Call (404) 362-6960 or visit EstesAir.com to request a commercial HVAC consultation today.
It's That Easy. It's Estes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial HVAC Systems
What are the most common HVAC system types for commercial buildings?
The most common types of HVAC systems include single-split systems, multi-split systems, ductless mini split systems, rooftop packaged units, VRF systems, heat pump systems, and chiller systems.
What is the difference between centralized air conditioning systems and split systems?
Centralized air conditioning systems typically use large rooftop or chiller units to cool entire buildings, while split HVAC systems divide components between indoor and outdoor units for zoned comfort.
How do commercial HVAC systems control indoor air quality?
Commercial HVAC systems use air filters, ventilation strategies, humidity control, and proper airflow design to control indoor air quality and maintain healthy indoor environments.
Which commercial HVAC solution is most energy efficient?
Energy efficiency depends on building size and usage. VRF systems and heat pump systems are often among the most energy-efficient commercial HVAC solutions for modern office buildings.
