Understanding HVAC Options

Metal buildings are increasingly popular for their modular design, sleek appearance, and sustainable construction. As part of the discussion of the needs of a metal building, builders and property owners must consider heating, cooling, and ventilation. An energy-efficient HVAC system can provide effective heating and cooling for the space while compensating for some challenges unique to metal buildings. An understanding of these options can drive wise decision-making for key stakeholders.

HVAC requirements for metal buildings

In many ways, HVAC requirements for metal buildings are similar to other types, with a notable distinction. Metal tends to conduct heat faster than wood, which means heat can transfer through the metal more effectively.  Minimizing heat transfer is an ideal target for an HVAC system, highlighting key goals for the HVAC installation. Property owners can maximize efficiency by considering a few upgrades, such as increasing or improving the quality of insulation. Selecting the most efficient units can reduce wasted energy.

Heating and cooling system options

When scheduling heating and cooling services for a metal building, professionals should consider their options. The best choice depends on the building’s application and the needs of its occupants. These HVAC system options can help property owners save money while ensuring effective comfort and safety for the building.

Split systems

Depending on the building and its function, split systems are the most common HVAC system type. They contain an exterior unit housing the air conditioning compression and condensing components, with an interior unit to handle heating, heat extraction, and air delivery. A split system is a practical arrangement for homes and smaller commercial buildings without the need for zoned heating and cooling. While some split systems can handle zoning, they may not be as effective as other options.

Air-source heat pumps

For property owners living in areas with mild winters and warm to hot summers, air-source heat pumps offer high efficiency and convenience. Heat pumps work much like air conditioners, using refrigerant to extract heat and humidity from the air for delivery to another place. The primary difference involves the direction. Heat pumps can draw heat out of the winter air to warm the building or extract heat from the interior to release it outside. As air-source heat pumps must draw heat from outdoor air, they may not be a viable choice for buildings in regions with cold winters. Still, they are often more efficient than a furnace.

Geothermal heating

As an alternative to air-source heat pumps, geothermal heating and cooling can be much more effective. Where an air-source heat pump relies on the ambient heat outside to warm a building, a geothermal heat pump draws heat from the steadier temperature of the earth to improve conditions indoors. The heat pump uses a series of pipes to cycle a liquid, collecting heat as it moves through the network. The heat can then be extracted to cycle warm air through the building. Geothermal tends to cost more than other HVAC systems but can last longer and significantly decrease operation costs.

Variable refrigerant flow

A variable refrigerant flow system can be an efficient option for larger metal buildings or any building with zoning needs. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) describes the cycling of different quantities of refrigerant to unique cooling coils positioned throughout the building. Refrigerant is the key component of a heating or cooling system because it can absorb heat and humidity to heat the building or release outside. A VRF system allows property owners to target their heating and cooling needs to each part of the building.

Ductless mini-splits

A ductless mini-split makes an efficient choice for metal buildings with no ductwork or any larger building requiring zoned heating and cooling. A mini-split is similar to a split system, except the interior unit is split into multiple evaporator coils and air handlers in strategic spots throughout the building. The system provides zoning, which allows property owners to manage heating and cooling for a large building or multiple units. As mini-splits do not rely on ductwork, they are often more efficient than ducted systems.

Efficient HVAC upgrades

While the type of system can dictate various facets of a metal building’s HVAC efficiency, there are other factors to consider. By adding these concerns to the final choice, property owners can get an HVAC system to meet their goals for building comfort and efficiency.

Insulation

Proper insulation is the key to ensuring high-efficiency HVAC in any building, particularly metal structures. As metal can conduct heat more readily than wood or other building materials, people who own metal buildings may spend more for the same heating or cooling output. Insulation is important for both high and low winter temperatures because it slows the heat transfer process in either direction. To accommodate the needs of a metal building, property owners should consider insulation with a higher R-value, with materials rated to perform well in their region and climate.

Variable-speed operation

The greater conductivity of metal buildings highlights a need for greater efficiency in the HVAC equipment itself, including variable-speed operation. Many of the most affordable HVAC systems offer one stage of operation: on or off. Others in the mid-range may have two stages: high and low. Variable-speed motors can tailor the speed of the operation to the amount of cooling or heating needed. These systems are often more efficient and less expensive to operate because they do not use extra power when the load does not call for it.

Energy-efficient equipment

Lower efficiency in the building requires higher efficiency in the equipment, usually denoted by a rating. Air conditioners use a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) to determine how much energy the system uses in relation to its output. The U.S. Department of Energy requires air conditioners to have a SEER rating of at least 14, although many units offer ratings in the mid-20s. Similarly, furnaces use an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating,
a percentage indicating the amount of energy converted to heat. Furnaces with the highest ratings have better efficiency.

Efficient usage

The most efficient system may still be underutilized, especially if the property owner does not have the keys to maximize its use. Heating and cooling a metal building should be a comprehensive package of efficient systems and guidance on effective use. Installing smart thermostats, insulation, and proper ventilation form components through which the HVAC system can deliver consistent output and minimal waste.

With the right tools, metal buildings can be highly efficient. By implementing these suggestions for the HVAC needs of a metal building, property owners can reduce operation costs, increase energy efficiency, and maintain a comfortable space for occupants.

Leslie Erickson is the marketing manager at Air Mechanical. She has worked for Air Mechanical for most of her life and specializes in marketing. She is dedicated to bringing customers the best experience possible for their family and their homes.