A Rooftop Unit (RTU) is an independent HVAC system found in commercial and industrial facilities. Sited on the roof of the building, RTUs provide the building occupants with heat, cool air, and fresh air from the outside.
It is now time to understand more about RTUs, including their operation, advantages, parts, and variability with other HVAC systems.
How Does an RTU Work?
The workings of RTUs follow the principle of air being drawn into the unit through the large fan. The air then passes through filter units, which remove dust, dirt, and other pollutants from the air.
Depending on the building’s requirements, the air is either cooled or heated to provide comfort. Lastly, the conditioned air is supplied through a system of ducts throughout the different sections of the building.
Key Components of an RTU:
- Blower: Draws air into the unit.
- Compressor: Circulates the refrigerant.
- Evaporator: Cools the air.
- Condenser: Releases heat from the system.
Additional components include thermostats, pressure switches, and flow sensors, which help regulate the unit’s operation and maintain optimal performance.
Benefits of an RTU System
RTUs offer several advantages over other HVAC systems:
- Efficiency: RTUs are very effective in circulating air in large structures such as commercial and industrial buildings. They can also help control the internal environment within the building, hence making it comfortable.
- Cost-Effective: The cost of operating RTUs is relatively low when compared with the other types of HVAC systems, which makes them economical for large areas.
- Space-Saving: Since RTUs are mounted on roofs, they only take up a little indoor space and do not require as much ducting.
- Customization: RTUs can be designed according to the needs of a certain building to offer climate control that suits the building.
RTU vs. Make-Up Air Unit (MAU)
While both RTUs and MAUs are used in commercial and industrial buildings, they serve different purposes:
- RTUs: Provide heating, cooling, and ventilation.
- MAUs: Primarily supply fresh air to the building.
MAUs are generally smaller and less powerful than RTUs and may lack features such as heating or cooling capabilities.
Electrical RTU
In electrical systems, RTU is an acronym for Remote Terminal Unit. An RTU is a computer that manages and controls devices or systems from a distance.
It is predominantly used in the industrial and commercial domains.
RTUs can control small things such as simple lights and large equipment and are commonly connected to SCADA systems for additional monitoring of activities in other facilities.
Cost of RTU HVAC Systems
RTU HVAC systems can also be customized depending on size, specific features, and a building location’s needs, with corresponding prices. Generally, the costs of diverse RTU models are likely to vary between $2,000 and $20,000.
Cost factors include the capacity of the unit and the climatic conditions that the unit has to provide. Some units may cost a little more because they are designed to withstand demanding conditions and have better features.
Maintenance and Monitoring
Adopting appropriate maintenance and monitoring procedures can help prolong the lifespan of RTUs while also guaranteeing that they remain efficient. This involves:
- Checking Filters: Regularly replacing or cleaning air filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.
- Inspecting Components: Ensuring the blower, compressor, evaporator, and condenser function correctly.
- Monitoring Controls: Verifying that thermostats, pressure switches, and flow sensors accurately regulate the unit.
Proper maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of the RTU.
Conclusion
Rooftop units (RTUs) are used in all kinds of commercial and industrial buildings to control heating, cooling & ventilation needs at an optimized cost and with flexibility.
Familiarity with the parts and advantages of RTUs may prove beneficial in evaluating the efficiency of these systems and their applicability to buildings under the management of HVAC professionals.
If you wish to know more information regarding RTUs or if you are experiencing difficulties in choosing and maintaining the proper HVAC system for your home and office, do not hesitate to call Finest Heating & Air. Our experts will give you the best heave HVAC solutions that you require.
