Designing Commercial Air Conditioning Systems for Large-Scale Refits

Why Large Commercial Refits Need Custom Air Conditioning Solutions

Across the UK, companies in sectors like finance, healthcare, hospitality, and retail are taking on large-scale building refits. Whether it’s a modernised office in Basingstoke, a heritage hotel in Marlow, or a high-street retail chain in Bristol, these projects bring unique challenges when it comes to air conditioning design.

A standard system won’t cut it. Retrofitting or expanding air conditioning for large, complex commercial spaces requires a customised approach — balancing energy efficiency, zoning, regulatory compliance, and integration with other building systems.

This blog explores how businesses can ensure their next commercial refit includes the right cooling solution, designed for today and future-ready for tomorrow.

Understanding the Scope of a Commercial Refit

Refits often combine:

• Major layout changes (open-plan to cellular spaces or vice versa).
• Updates to electrical, mechanical, and data systems.
• Sustainability upgrades, such as LED lighting and smart controls.
• Expanded or upgraded cooling and ventilation systems.

For businesses in Woking, Henley-on-Thames, or Southampton, it’s a chance to improve energy performance, enhance occupant comfort, and align with modern building standards.

Key Factors in Air Conditioning System Design

1. Cooling Load Calculations

Accurate load assessments ensure the system is sized correctly — too small, and performance suffers; too large, and efficiency plummets.

2. Zoning and Control

Large spaces often need multiple zones, each with its own temperature controls to accommodate varied use (meeting rooms, open-plan offices, server rooms, etc.).

3. Equipment Selection

VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow), multi-split, and chilled water systems are common for refits, but the choice depends on building type, occupancy, and existing infrastructure.

4. Integration with Other Systems

Modern commercial sites require HVAC (air conditioning and ventilation) integration with Building Management Systems (BMS) for optimal control.

5. Regulatory Compliance

All designs must meet:

• F-Gas Regulations [1].
• Building Regulations Part L (energy efficiency) [2].
• Workplace Health and Safety standards [3].

Challenges in Large Commercial Installations

Refitting large commercial spaces poses distinct challenges:

• Space Constraints: Older buildings often have limited space for new ductwork or equipment.
• Operational Disruption: Work must be staged to minimise downtime for staff or customers.
• Coordination Across Trades: Mechanical, electrical, and architectural teams must collaborate closely.
• Maintaining Compliance: All updates must meet current energy and refrigerant rules, even if older systems are still in place.

Case Study: Large-Scale Office Refit in Woking

ClimateWorks was recently contracted to manage the cooling design for a 60,000-square-foot office refit in Woking.

The project included:

• Designing a VRF system with multiple zones across five floors.
• Replacing legacy R-22 systems with R-32 equipment to meet F-Gas requirements.
• Integrating air conditioning controls with the client’s BMS.
• Coordinating phased installation to allow staff to continue working during the upgrade.

The result? A future-proofed, energy-conscious cooling solution that delivered improved comfort, reduced energy costs, and ensured full compliance.

Benefits of Working with a Specialist Contractor

Choosing a partner like ClimateWorks offers businesses:

• Customised Design: Tailored solutions that reflect unique building and operational needs.
• Expertise Across System Types: From VRF to chilled water to rooftop packaged units.
• Comprehensive Compliance: Assurance that installations meet or exceed all legal and environmental requirements.
• Seamless Integration: Coordination with other trades to deliver a unified, efficient building system.

Bullet Summary: What Makes a Great Commercial Refit Cooling Solution?

• Detailed load assessments to size systems accurately.
• Flexible zoning and control for diverse space usage.
• Low-GWP refrigerant selection for environmental compliance.
• Integration with smart building systems.
• Professional project management to minimise disruption.

Why ClimateWorks is the Right Choice

Whether you’re refitting a corporate HQ in Basingstoke, a healthcare clinic in Henley-on-Thames, or a retail site in Bristol, ClimateWorks delivers:

• Decades of commercial installation experience.
• Certified engineers trained in the latest system technologies.
• Transparent pricing, detailed project planning, and expert aftercare.
• A proven track record across multiple commercial sectors.

👉 Contact ClimateWorks today to discuss your commercial refit project and get expert advice on designing the perfect cooling system.

References

[1] UK Government. (2024). Using Fluorinated Gases (F-Gases) Regulations.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/using-fluorinated-gases-f-gases

[2] Building Regulations Part L.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/conservation-of-fuel-and-power-approved-document-l

[3] Health and Safety Executive (HSE). (2024). Workplace Health and Safety Guidelines.
https://www.hse.gov.uk

Author Bio

Dr. Julian Carter is a highly experienced thermal systems expert with over 15 years in the field, holding a PhD in thermal systems. His career spans academic research, consulting, and teaching, focusing on air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Dr. Carter bridges the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications, providing expert insights to organisations like ClimateWorks, where his guidance informs decision-making and industry best practices. Notably, he has worked on international projects with organisations such as Daikin Industries, the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Currently a lecturer at Edinburgh University, Dr. Carter combines his expertise with a passion for educating the next generation of engineers and advancing climate control technologies.

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