At DMC Service, we always get calls asking if we can help with residential HVAC systems. As an HVAC service provider specializing in commercial systems, some might ask, “what’s the difference? HVAC is HVAC, right?”
Yes, but also no. Let us explain.
When it comes to a building’s heating and cooling system, the three main components are Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC). Not all HVAC systems are the same, however. The HVAC system you use in your home differs from those used in an office building. While the needs of heating and cooling in a residential and commercial building sound the same in theory, the sheer size difference between the two necessitates different equipment. And it’s this difference in HVAC units that requires additional services.
Let’s look at how residential and commercial HVAC systems work and how their differences change how they are serviced.
With residential HVAC units, there are three main types: central air, window/portable, and ductless mini split. While they all work the same in general, the big difference is that central air uses air ducts to circulate cold and warm air throughout your house, while window/portable units and ductless mini-split systems are localized to one area of your home.
Regardless of the system, they are relatively similar in design and can be worked on by any HVAC specialist. Residential systems should have some basic preventative maintenance performed, such as changing the air filter or cleaning a unit’s condenser, compressor, evaporator, and blower. Ideally, this is performed by a licensed contractor. When homeowners take proper care of their residential HVACs, they can run for years. The annual inspection will also spot potential problems like electrical issues or damaged parts.
Commercial HVACs work just like residential ones, but with two main differences: size and complexity. While an HVAC system used to heat and cool your home only has to worry about a few rooms and possibly a second floor, commercial HVACs must regulate the temperature of an entire building. This extra work means that the units must be larger and more complex. Commercial HVACs also run much louder and are often installed on the roof.
The design of a commercial HVAC unit is more complex than its residential counterparts. In order to heat and cool entire buildings, they must draw more power and energy to deal with multiple thermostat settings within a single building. Unlike residential systems, the larger size, complexity, and location of a commercial HVAC unit means that specialized HVAC specialists are needed to perform maintenance and make repairs. These systems are also more expensive than home HVAC systems, meaning that failing to keep them in top shape can lead to costly repairs down the line.
As you can see, the difference between commercial and residential HVAC systems is similar to the buildings whose temperature they regulate. Residential HVAC systems are smaller and more simple. Commercial HVACs, on the other hand, are large, complex machines that require specialized training to work on and can be very costly to repair if they aren’t properly installed and maintained.
If your commercial building needs its HVAC system serviced, give us a call or contact us online to experience our diamond-strong, brilliant work. Our agile, flexible approach to HVAC service means that you get more personalized service, whether it’s warehouse and distribution, small manufacturing, retail, or low-level office buildings.
Founded in 2004, DMC Service, Inc. is proud of our decade-plus service to the Kansas City Metro and beyond. Based out of Olathe, we are a 100% woman-owned business with Karen Crnkovich at the helm as President and “Chief Hand-Shaker.” Karen leads the DMC Service team with unwavering passion and enthusiasm to fulfill our purpose: To keep people comfortable, safe and healthy.