Ensuring a comfortable indoor climate for employees and customers is essential.
One of the best ways to do this is with an efficient air conditioning system. But when is the best time for commercial air conditioning installation?
This article will discuss whether there is a ‘best’ time to install commercial air conditioning, looking at factors like climate and demand to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Commercial Air Conditioning
Before we talk about the best installation times, we’re going to answer the question “How does commercial air conditioning work?”
Commercial air conditioning systems are designed to cool or heat large indoor spaces that often have more complex requirements than residential systems. A commercial system will often include sophisticated technology that ensures energy efficiency and consistent performance across larger areas.
Commercial air conditioning systems come in all types and indoor units can range from wall-mounted units, ceiling cassettes under ceiling units. All types of system must be specified and installed correctly to ensure they function efficiently and meet the demands of commercial spaces, such as office buildings, server rooms, retail outlets and industrial properties.
Factors Influencing Installation Timing
Contractor Availability
One of the main considerations for commercial air conditioning installation is contractor availability.
During the peak season, that is, summer, the demand for air conditioning installations skyrockets. This increased demand will mean longer wait times for contractor availability. On the other hand, off-peak periods, such as autumn and winter, usually see a decrease in demand, resulting in shorter lead times.
Climate and Weather Conditions
While the British climate does not always demand constant air conditioning, the unpredictable nature of the weather can still impact installation schedules.
Summer months might seem like the logical time to install an air conditioning system, ready to battle the heat. However, it can actually be more strategic to plan installations during cooler months. This planning means that your system will be installed, tested, commissioned and ready to cool your building when the heat arrives!
Financial Considerations
Your business’s financial considerations will influence the best time to install air conditioning. There is no seasonal cost variation for installing air con in the UK. Whether you arrange it in summer or winter, the price will be the same. So, it’s better to plan around your business’s own peak. Cash flow might be better for you in one season more than the next, so it could be an idea to arrange commercial air con installation for your busy period.
Business Needs
Installing commercial air con during a ‘busy business’ period might work for some companies, but for others, this could be a problem! Whilst professional contractors will keep disruption to a minimum, there may be some noise and interruptions. So, if your business is concerned about this, perhaps your peak time is not the best time for installation. Air conditioning systems improve indoor air quality, too, so the decision to install them may not be temperature-dependent. In that case, the sooner, the better for the sake of the health and well-being of building occupants.
The Best Time for Installation
Given the above considerations, the ideal time for commercial air conditioning installation is the time that fits around your business best.
During off-peak periods, like the autumn and winter months, contractors will have more availability, so you might not need to wait as long for installation. You might also have more flexibility in terms of picking a date that works around your business.
However, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to the best time to install a commercial air conditioning system. The best time is just the time that fits your business’s needs the best.
Understanding the Costs
When considering the cost of installing commercial air conditioning in the UK, several factors come into play. These include the size of the area to be cooled, the type of system chosen and the complexity of the installation process.
To get an accurate estimate, you can use an air conditioning calculator. This tool helps businesses understand the potential costs based on their specific requirements. We have our own air conditioning calculator, which takes into account the room type and size to give you an outline guide cost, along with options for alternative unit types.
Additionally, obtaining a free quote from reputable contractors is crucial to understanding the full scope of the costs involved. Trusted contractors like Yee Group, with over 35 years in the industry, not only provide reliable installation services but also ensure long-term maintenance. Their experience proves their commitment to the industry and ensures quality service.
For businesses concerned about financing, many contractors work with financial institutions regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to offer flexible payment plans. These plans help spread the installation cost over a more extended period, making it more manageable for businesses of all sizes.
Maximising Energy Efficiency
Another important aspect of commercial air conditioning installation is energy efficiency. Modern commercial air conditioning systems are designed to be more energy-efficient, which can make them more cost-effective. The sooner you switch to a new, more efficient system, the sooner you will benefit from energy savings. When planning your installation, it’s beneficial to chat about energy efficiency options with your contractor to ensure that you are choosing a system that meets your needs while keeping operational costs low.
Conclusion
Timing is indeed everything when it comes to commercial air conditioning installation. There is no right or wrong time of year. Contractors might be more available in the autumn/winter months, but if this time doesn’t suit your business, then go for summer instead, but book it early!
Understanding how commercial air conditioning works and the factors influencing installation timing can help you make an informed decision, ensuring your business remains comfortable and productive year-round.
Whether cooling server rooms or providing a pleasant environment for employees and customers, a well-installed air conditioning system is an essential investment for any business.
