Whether it’s a hospital, office space, or a shopping mall, HVAC cooling towers are a critical element of new commercial buildings. They help maintain a comfortable temperature inside the building throughout the year. In short, cooling towers ensure the safety and comfort of people working or living in your new commercial building.
HVAC cooling towers are often highly efficient, which makes them a popular choice in modern commercial building designs. They come in different designs and sizes. However, all cooling towers use the same working principle – heat exchange. They remove heat from your building’s HVAC system and maintain a comfortable environment.
Let’s dive into the world of HVAC cooling towers.
How Does an HVAC Cooling Tower Work?
An HVAC cooling tower uses water to absorb heat. Think of it as a massive fan that pulls the warm air from the building and passes it over the cooling water. It then releases the cool air back into the building. That’s how you get a cozy, comfortable feel in your office or shop.
There are two types of commercial cooling tower systems – open-circuit and closed-circuit.
In an open-circuit cooling tower, the hot air passes through the water directly. It’s a highly efficient system but more susceptible to contamination. As the air passes through the water directly, contaminants like bacteria, algae, and other pollutants can trap into the water. They can build up over time, leading to problems like fouling or scaling.
On the other hand, in a closed-circuit cooling tower AC system, water circulates in a closed loop. There is no direct contact between the air and the water. Although this design protects the water from contamination, it reduces the heat transfer efficiency of your cooling tower. That means you might spend more money on it than the open-circuit system.
Each HVAC cooling tower has its pros and cons. The choice will usually depend on your budget, heating and cooling needs, and space, among other things. It’s better to consult a local professional expert before getting a new cooling tower for your building.
For example, if your new building is in New Jersey or the New York area, an expert like Pinnacle CTS can help. Our team can crunch a few numbers and set up a cooling tower AC system that best suits your HVAC needs.
Why Use Cooling Towers in New Commercial Buildings?
New commercial buildings need cost-effective, efficient, and durable HVAC systems. That’s where professionally designed commercial cooling tower systems come in. These systems offer many benefits over their traditional counterparts.
They are:
1. Energy Efficiency: Modern commercial buildings are more focused on energy saving. Commercial cooling tower systems rely on the evaporation technique. It is more energy-efficient than the traditional HVAC systems.
Evaporation cools the air quickly and naturally. It eliminates the need for complex electrical cooling systems. These systems are less efficient and require more maintenance. However, HVAC cooling towers offer more energy savings, which translate into lower energy bills.
2. Reduced Environmental Impact: Environmental impact is a growing concern. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), air conditioning releases 1,950 million tons of carbon dioxide annually, or 3.94% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Building cooling towers have a smaller carbon footprint. As a result, they contribute less to greenhouse emissions. With these towers, commercial buildings can lower their environmental impact greatly. It can be a huge selling point, especially for businesses looking to show environmental responsibility.
3. Increased Efficiency: Traditional HVAC systems struggle to evenly cool large areas. That’s where HVAC cooling towers excel. They are designed to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout a large area. This consistency translates into higher energy efficiency and cost savings.
4. Scalability and Flexibility: Unlike their traditional counterparts, commercial cooling tower systems are flexible and easy to scale. You can upgrade it to meet your changing HVAC needs. It’s easy to expand existing units or add new ones.
4 Factors to Consider When Getting a Commercial Cooling Tower System
Getting a new commercial cooling tower system is a huge decision. It’s an expensive and long-term investment. Here’s what you need to think about:
1. Space Requirements: HVAC cooling towers need ample space, not just for initial setup but also for upgrades and maintenance. Cooling towers need plumbing and electrical systems, which require adequate space. That’s why most cooling towers are installed on the roof. However, you should consult a professional like Pinnacle CTS first. We can help you design the space to meet your current and future needs.
2. Water Availability and Quality: Good quality water is the lifeline of a commercial cooling tower system. Poor water quality can lead to issues like fouling, scaling, and corrosion. That often leads to frequent repairs and unplanned downtimes. Poor water quality also affects the efficiency of your tower. Make sure you have a steady supply of good-quality water. This might mean investing in a water treatment system.
3. Maintenance: HVAC cooling towers need regular maintenance. This generally includes:
- Routine inspections
- Cleaning and descaling
- Parts repair and replacement
- System adjustment
- Water quality check and maintenance
Neglecting maintenance can lead to frequent breakdowns and decreased efficiency. In other words, you will need a reliable local cooling tower maintenance service for the upkeep. They can identify potential issues early and keep your tower working smoothly.
4. Local Regulations and Building Codes: Your cooling tower should be up to code. Local regulations and building codes can vary significantly depending on the location. However, these regulations typically cover noise levels, environmental impact, safety, and water use.
The Future of Cooling Towers
The future of building cooling towers looks bright with the increasing need for energy-efficient and environment-friendly HVAC solutions. The next-generation cooling systems are focusing on issues like water usage. Many modern systems can now recycle some of the bleed water.
On the other hand, factory-assembled HVAC cooling towers can now speed up installation. You can get these towers with a 60% shorter lead time and installed in about 20% of the time. This quick and efficient installation can help commercial buildings save money.
Over time, commercial cooling tower systems will become more energy-efficient, eco-conscious, and cost-effective.
Get a Cooling Tower for Your New Commercial Building
HVAC cooling towers are a smart investment for new commercial buildings. They are more energy-efficient, have a lower carbon footprint, and provide consistent cooling. However, a cooling tower needs adequate space, a good quality water supply, regular maintenance, and compliance with local building codes. The new advanced cooling tower systems are highly energy-efficient and cost-effective. In short, it’s a perfect HVAC solution for your new commercial building.
Need a cooling tower for a commercial building? Look no further than Pinnacle CTS. We provide cooling tower installation, repair, and cleaning services in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Contact us today for a free inspection and estimate!
