What Is a Multi-Family HVAC System?

Are you a business owner or property manager looking to install or replace a multi-family HVAC system? If so, you may be wondering what this type of system is and how it works. Atomatic Mechanical Services offers an overview of multi-family HVAC systems so that you can better understand them and how they are used so you can determine if they are a good system for your building for this type of setup. 

Options for Multi-Family HVAC Systems

When it comes to heating and cooling multi-family housing, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. 

  1. First, the size and layout of the unit can impact the amount of heat or cool air lost. 
  2. Second, the number of occupants in the unit can also affect how much heat or cool air is needed. 
  3. And finally, the climate in which the unit is located will play a role in the type of heating and cooling system that is needed. 

With these factors in mind, it’s important to choose a heating and cooling system that is energy efficient and effective. There are a variety of heating and air conditioning systems on the market, so it’s important to do some research to find one that will meet the specific needs of your multi-family housing unit. The primary options for multi-family HVAC systems include centralized and decentralized systems.

Centralized HVAC Systems

Centralized multi-family HVAC systems offer to heat and cool an entire building from equipment housed and operated from a central location. These systems are typically installed in a basement or rooftop. 

Centralized multi-family HVAC systems offer the building owner or property manager control over heating and cooling for all of the building’s occupants. While this makes it easier to maintain cost and energy efficiency,  however, occupants are not always satisfied with the inability to individually control temperatures in their units. 

In a large housing complex, centralized multi-family HVAC systems are often preferred because of the energy savings that can be generated. Cost is also a factor, as when there are a certain number of units to outfit, installing a centralized HVAC system can be more affordable upfront versus installing individual units for every section. Common equipment used in these multi-family HVAC systems includes hot water baseboard and radiator systems and geothermal HVAC systems.

Decentralized HVAC Systems

Decentralized multi-family HVAC systems consist of an individual heating and cooling system for each unit in a building. Decentralized systems allow each tenant to freely control heating and cooling inside their own unit, which is not possible with a centralized system. This can result in more energy consumption versus centralized systems, but occupant satisfaction is greatly increased.

Installing a decentralized system in every unit is typically the preferred option for heating and cooling smaller complexes. The cost to install an individual unit for each section of the building can be much less than the upfront expense of a larger centralized HVAC system when there are fewer units to consider. Commonly, single-stage heat pumps and air conditioners are installed as decentralized multi-family HVAC systems, but other options can include electric baseboard heating and packaged air conditioners.

Is a Multi-Family HVAC System Right for You? 

Multi-family HVAC systems offer a variety of benefits for property managers and building tenants. If you’re looking for a way to improve the comfort and efficiency of your multi-family building, contact us today to learn more about our systems and how they can benefit you. Each unit is different and based on your multifamily building’s needs, it’s hard to say which system would work better for you without seeing it first. 

Why Work with Atomatic Mechanical 

A multi-family HVAC system can be a significant undertaking for anyone. We understand that, which is why we work so closely with each of our customers to tailor and make a plan that works for them. With decades of experience and a reputation built around excellence, it is no question why Atomatic is the premier HVAC company in the area.

From our technicians to our customer service, we are a company of individuals dedicated to our customers. If you are in the market for a multi-family HAVC system, ensure you are working with the best company you can, it could make all the difference.

Contact Atomatic in Chicagoland Today!

If you are ready to talk about a multi-family HVAC system, or any of our products, contact Atomatic Mechanical in Chicagoland today!

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