The right temperature is essential in a business environment; whether you are running a factory, a retail outlet or an office block. The temperature needs to be comfortable for your employees; too cold or too hot and they will struggle to focus properly and reach maximum productivity. The same issue is often relevant for the product being made as well. Computer components and other electrical parts need to be produced in a carefully controlled environment; humidity and temperature are often the most important factors in a controlled environment.
This often leads to the dilemma of how to properly heat your premises. This is a particularly difficult issue if you need a carefully controlled environment. Some heating systems can increase the humidity or even dry out the air in the building. Others may be difficult to regulate precisely, especially if there are not enough thermostats or insufficient heat sources. Retrofitting heating can also cause issues as it can be very difficult to run pipes behind walls or allocate enough space for new boilers.
It is advisable to seek professional assistance before deciding on and fitting any heating system; this will ensure you choose the best system for your needs. The following systems are the most commonly chosen ones for business premises:
Conventional Radiator / Central Heating System
One of the most popular systems in the home is also a practical solution to the heating requirements of office buildings. A boiler which can be powered by natural gas, electricity, oil or even wood is used to heat water inside a sealed system. This water is then pumped around the building via pipes to radiators fitted in each of the rooms. Water temperature is controlled by the boiler and each of the rooms will be fitted with a thermostat. If the temperature in a room is reached the valve on the radiator will close and prevent any more hot water entering the radiator. It will slowly to start to cool. The whole system can be controlled by a central thermostat or by one in each room.
It is generally difficult to keep the room at a specific temperature. Advice on these types of system can be obtained from almost any plumber or general heating specialist.
Airflow Systems
A system which is often fitted during the construction of a building is airflow heating. It can be fitted after the building has been finished but this is more complicated and costly. A directional air flow system works by using electrical elements to heat the air and then direct them into the room. The heating element can be mounted into a room based device; with each room having its own device and connected to each other via a network to enable it to be controlled centrally.
Alternatively you can have a system which has a central heating element; the heated is air is pumped through pipes into every room of the building. Each room can have its own thermostat and, when the room reaches temperature a valve is closed, preventing more heat from entering the room.
This is exceptionally popular in factories which need to control the environment; especially if they have a clean room. The pipes which move the air around the building can have filters built into them. These can be to remove excessive humidity or pollutants in the air around you. It can also be used in conjunction with inline thermostats to ensure the air supplied to a specific room is regulated to a specific temperature. This system will allow a high level of control over the temperature and other elements of the air; ensuring a clean room environment.
It is best to speak to a specialist if you wish to install this type of system into your premises. Phoenix Controls is one company that has a proven reputation in supplying and installing these systems. They are also happy to provide expert advice via email, telephone or live chat.
Radiant Heaters
Many factories and large warehouses need a more powerful method of heating the air, large spaces need large heating solutions. Radiant heat works by heating people and objects, not the air; as a directional airflow system would. The most common example of this type of system is a long metal, circular tube mounted above head height in the building. This pipe is warmed via a boiler usually powered by gas or oil. The heat radiates from the pipe and can be felt by people working below it. This makes it exceptionally good at heating large spaces, particularly ones which are subject to rapid changes in temperature; such as an industrial unit with large industrial doors.
It is important to consider which type of power you can and will use to generate the heat in your building. It is possible to use natural gas or oil. Both of these sources of power are reliant on fossil fuels and you may wish to consider the implication on the environment if you choose to utilize one of these methods.
