What is the difference between HVAC and commercial HVAC?

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is a general term for climate control, while commercial HVAC specifically refers to such systems used in large buildings (offices, retail stores, schools). Compared to residential HVAC (home) systems, commercial systems are larger in scale, have more complex zoning, more customized designs (e.g., chillers/VRF systems), higher power requirements, are typically installed on rooftops, and are subject to stricter regulations. Therefore, they require professional technicians to maintain the large equipment, advanced control systems, and ensure continuous operation.

Key Differences:
Size and Scale: Residential systems are compact and suitable for homes; commercial systems are large-scale, composed of multiple components, and designed for entire buildings.
Complexity: Commercial systems typically feature customized designs with zoning, advanced control systems, and subsystems (chillers, VRF systems), while residential units are relatively simple.
Installation Location: Residential units are usually installed on the ground (backyard/basement); commercial units are typically installed on rooftops or in equipment rooms.
Power and Ventilation: Due to the need to serve a large number of people and often enclosed spaces, commercial systems require higher power and stronger ventilation/exhaust capabilities.
Regulations: Commercial systems face stricter energy, safety, and air quality regulations.
Installation and Maintenance: Installation and maintenance of commercial systems involve larger equipment, more trades, complex logistics, and require highly specialized technicians.

In short:
HVAC: The entire field of heating, cooling, and ventilation.
Commercial HVAC: Large, complex systems used in businesses, schools, and hospitals, typically installed on rooftops, contrasting with smaller, simpler systems used in homes.

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