Assessing the right AC system

A professional site survey is the first step in determining the right air conditioning system. Every building is unique, and factors like room size, insulation, layout, electrical capacity, and even sun exposure all play a role in determining the most effective and energy-efficient solution. Without a proper survey, you risk oversizing or undersizing the unit, leading to higher energy bills, uneven cooling, or costly future upgrades.

Here are a few of the key factors we use to determine the most appropriate AC system when conducting a site survey:

• Room Size & layout – Room size is one of the most important factors in selecting the right air conditioning system because it directly determines the cooling capacity required. If the AC system is mismatched to the room size, it can cause inefficiency, discomfort, and higher costs. A unit that is too small will struggle to cool the space, while a unit that is too large will cool too quickly without properly dehumidifying, leaving the air damp and clammy.
• Occupants and Appliances – The number of people in the space and heat-emitting equipment like computers and printers can significantly increase the demand on your AC system. Quite simply, the more people in a room, the higher the total heat load that the AC must handle. More people also equates to higher CO2 concentration. The right level of fresh air ventilation to dilute CO2 is essential for maintaining indoor air quality.
• Length of pipe run Length of pipe run (distance from indoor to outdoor unit) – This consideration is a major factor in selecting the right air conditioning system and affects performance, efficiency, and installation costs. A longer pipe runs has the potential for greater refrigerant pressure loss and reduced cooling efficiency. If the pipe run exceeds the manufacturer’s recommended limit, the system may not deliver its full cooling capacity. When assessing your needs, selecting an AC unit that matches the building layout and complies with the manufacturer’s pipe length limits is vital for ensuring long-term reliability and comfort.

Commercial Considerations

Commercial spaces often require complex and powerful solutions. Offices, retail units, hospitality venues, and industrial buildings tend to be larger, busier, and subject to higher internal heat loads due to lighting, equipment, and people. This means they need systems capable of running efficiently for long hours without interruption. When designing and implementing an air conditioning system, our focus rests on ensuring the comfort of staff and customers whilst delivering operational efficiency and cost effectiveness.