Hotel Air Conditioning: How It Works and Maintenance Tips

September 20th, 2024

Last updated: September 20th, 2024

For hotel business owners, ensuring guest comfort is a top priority, and air conditioning plays a significant role in this. This is especially true in buildings where there aren’t so many windows. Some hotels forego windows as a safety precaution but this can come with its own problems.

Properly functioning hotel air conditioning units help regulate temperature and keep rooms fresh. However, hotel air conditioning systems require regular maintenance to remain effective and efficient. This article will delve into how hotel air conditioning works and provide essential maintenance tips to keep your units running smoothly.

Types of Hotel Air Conditioning

There are a few different types of air conditioning that are options for hotels and Bed and Breakfasts.

Centralised Systems or “Multi Split Systems” are the most popular option. These are large systems that cool multiple rooms or the entire building from a central unit. A popular type in modern hotels is the HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), which integrates air conditioning with heating and ventilation in one centralised unit and then has separate controls in each room. The system uses a compressor to circulate refrigerant through evaporator and condenser coils. When the refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs heat from the room, cooling the air. The cooled air is then distributed through ductwork and vents, ensuring a consistent temperature across different rooms.

A “Single Split System” is also an option, but these all need their own outdoor unit to go with the inside unit. Individual Room Units are an option, though much more expensive. These are standalone units installed in each room, allowing guests to control the temperature independently. Common systems include split systems (with an indoor and outdoor unit) or window-mounted air conditioners. These work on the same basic principles as central systems, using refrigerant to remove heat from the air, but on a smaller scale. This provides flexibility and control, which some guests prefer.

VRF systems are an option. These are air-cooled and refrigerant-based and they use outdoor condenser units and indoor units for the fans. One large outdoor pumping unit can then handle a lot of different “air handlers” and these can be controlled individually.

Each building has its own quirks and requirements. Hotel air conditioning varies greatly depending on the size of the building and the requirements. Getting the help of professionals is crucial if you are at the stage of getting air conditioning installed.

Maintenance Tips for Hotel Air Conditioning Systems

Not taking care of an air conditioning system can cause a risk of breakdown or even things like sharing illnesses. Here are some of the top tips for keeping hotel air conditioning and HVAC systems in top working order:

• Regular Filter Cleaning and Replacement Filters. These play a crucial role in removing dust, allergens, and pollutants from the air. Over time, filters become clogged, which reduces airflow and forces the system to work harder. For individual room units, it’s recommended to clean or replace filters every one to three months, depending on usage. Central systems may require professional cleaning. In hotels where the air conditioning runs continuously, more frequent filter checks and changes may be needed to keep air quality high and the system efficient.
• Inspect Ductwork and Vents. For centralised air conditioning systems, it’s important to regularly inspect the ductwork for leaks or obstructions. Leaking ducts can lead to inefficient cooling and higher energy bills, as the cool air escapes before reaching its intended destination. Vents in both centralised and individual systems should be clear of obstructions like furniture or curtains. Additionally, vent grills should be dusted regularly to prevent blockages.
• Check Refrigerant Levels. The refrigerant is the substance that allows the air conditioning system to absorb and expel heat. If the refrigerant levels are too low, the system won’t cool the air effectively, leading to inefficiencies and higher electricity usage. Low refrigerant can also cause the compressor to overheat, leading to costly repairs. It’s advisable to have a professional technician check refrigerant levels during routine maintenance.
• Coil Cleaning. Both the evaporator coils and condenser coils in air conditioning systems can accumulate dirt over time. Dirty coils reduce the system’s ability to absorb heat, which impacts cooling efficiency. For individual room units, the evaporator coils should be checked and cleaned at least once a year. For central systems, regular coil cleaning should be a part of scheduled professional maintenance to ensure the system is operating at peak performance.

While daily or weekly checks can be performed by your in-house maintenance team, it’s crucial to schedule regular professional inspections and services for your air conditioning systems. A professional HVAC technician can detect issues that may not be visible during routine checks, such as electrical faults or signs of wear in system components. An annual or bi-annual inspection ensures that your air conditioning system is running efficiently and can help identify potential problems before they become major expenses.