One of the first challenges for startups is properly equipping office spaces to make them ergonomically safe, comfortable and efficient for employees to execute daily tasks. Basic office supplies such as furniture, a water dispenser, a printer/photocopier and stationery are all necessary to properly run any office. One other piece of equipment, whose importance cannot be underestimated, is an air conditioner. Having an appropriate air conditioning system for an office space largely determines how habitable it can be. With the sometimes unpredictable nature of the weather, it is necessary to regulate the temperature so people can work comfortably. One of the problems startups face when choosing air conditioning systems is finding one that suits the size of the office space. For instance, a large system, although effective, can prove highly unnecessary and too expensive due to it’s high power consumption.
Commercial air conditioning for small spaces
There are several available options of commercial air conditioners for startups with small office spaces to choose:
Split air conditioning system
When choosing temperature regulators for an office space with small capacity, the air conditioner split system is one of the best options to go for. In the split unit, the condenser and compressor are typically installed outside, while the evaporator is inside the room. It is cheap, economical, energy efficient, and because every unit works independently of the others, the others continue to function efficiently even if one breaks down. It is easy to install, they work quietly and some even come with heating options. The downside of the split air conditioning system is they have a higher initial cost per ton of cooling capacity and although easy to install, it needs to be done by a qualified technician and the installation fee can be pricey.
Portable air conditioners
Portable air conditioners are as their name suggests, portable. They are small air conditioning devices that can easily be moved around for convenience. They are stationed on the floor and some even have wheels attached to them. They are ideal for single rooms or small spaces that do not require high powered systems. They are cheap, consume minimal energy and some are even capable of dehumidifying the air, which is perfect for people who suffer allergies brought on by allergens in the air, such as pollen. The main problem with portable air conditioning systems is that they can be noisy. While the noisy components of larger systems are outside, everything about the system of a portable AC is indoors. The noise from this pint size machine can cause relative disturbance to staff as they work.
Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs)
Lastly on this list is the packaged terminal air conditioner system. This is a commercial grade AC that is typically installed in hotel rooms, at home, hospitals, senior housing facilities, condominiums and in small offices. They function as both heaters and coolers. Their basic design allows one to control multiple units from one location, they are cost-effective and they are usually installed in the space between the window and the floor. The cons of installing a PTAC is the service cost is quite high and it tends to consume more energy than other kinds of ACs suitable for small spaces.
Conclusion
Finding the right air conditioner for commercial use is a matter of defining your individual requirements. Startups usually do not need an air conditioning system with a high capacity. They simply need something to keep the environment comfortable and they can consider upgrading as their business grows.
