Packaged Air Conditioners, Gas Packs and Packaged Heat Pumps for Commercial Spaces

A packaged unit holds the compressor, coils, fan and heating section in one cabinet outside the building. A split system divides them between an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser. Packaged units suit buildings with little indoor mechanical space.

No. Sizing uses a load calculation based on the building envelope, windows, occupancy, lighting, equipment heat and ventilation air. Square footage alone leaves out most of what drives the load.

Sometimes. It depends on outdoor space or roof capacity, existing ductwork, gas and electrical supply and landlord approval. We review these during the site walk before recommending it.

Often it can, but only after duct sizes, leakage and static pressure are checked. A transition fitting can join different openings. If the ducts cannot carry the airflow, we say so and explain the options.

In most cases, yes. Send nameplate photos and a short description through Build My Quote, or compare with rooftop unit service if the unit sits on a roof.

It can be, depending on the building. Cold weather reduces heat pump output, so the model, the building's heat loss, the design temperature and the backup heat all matter. A packaged heat pump may suit a space with electric service and no gas. We review these points during the site walk and write down the options. See heat pump installation for the home-side basics.

In many cases, yes. A ground pad needs level, stable support, clearances for airflow and service, and a duct route through the wall or below grade. Snow drift, noise, security and landlord rules also matter. Ground-level placement keeps service at ground level and may avoid a crane. We compare it with roof placement during the site walk.

A new or replacement packaged unit can involve mechanical, gas and electrical permits, and a building permit if a pad, curb or wall opening changes. What applies depends on the municipality and the scope. Rules differ by municipality and change, so we confirm requirements in the written scope. Landlord approval is a separate step.

Ice on the coil usually points to low airflow, a dirty filter or coil, a blower problem or low refrigerant from a leak. Cooling in cool weather can cause it too. Turn the cooling off and run the fan to thaw the coil, then book a visit. Do not chip ice off the coil. Send a photo through Build My Quote.

It depends on the unit. Some run on single-phase power, while larger units often need three-phase supply, a correctly sized breaker and a disconnect within reach. The nameplate lists voltage, phase and minimum circuit ampacity. Electrical work is carried out by licensed electrical professionals or trade partners, with permits and notification where required.

Clear the pad or the roof route, arrange parking or street access for the delivery vehicle and lift, and give tenants notice of any shutdown. Confirm who has keys, roof hatch access and building contacts. Delivery and lift timing depend on the equipment and the site, and we plan them in the written scope.

Frequent cycling can come from an oversized unit, a dirty filter, a poorly placed thermostat, a tripping safety or low refrigerant. Constant starts wear contactors and compressors. A visit checks airflow, thermostat location and safety trips before parts are replaced. Call +1 905-407-7353 or send a request through Build My Quote.

Signs include a unit that runs all day and still cannot keep up, rooms that swing hot and cold, or air that feels clammy because the unit shuts off too quickly. Duct problems can look the same. Sizing is checked with a load calculation and a duct review, not a rule of thumb, before any replacement is recommended.