When it comes to heating and cooling in small commercial building additions, remodels, or IT/server rooms, traditional central HVAC systems often fall short. Extending ductwork or upgrading an existing centralized system can be costly, disruptive, and inefficient—especially when the new space has different usage patterns or environmental requirements.
This is particularly true for IT rooms, where consistent and precise temperature control is critical to protecting sensitive equipment and ensuring business continuity. That’s where mini split heating and cooling systems offer a smart, flexible solution.
Mini split systems provide independent climate control without the need to overhaul your entire HVAC infrastructure. They offer zoned temperature control, streamlined installation, energy efficiency, and the adaptability needed for various commercial applications.
Below, we share three common scenarios—based on insights from our Architect and Senior Estimator—where mini splits have proven especially beneficial.
Retrofit an Interior Renovation
Creating new office space within an existing building can easily be heated without tapping into the existing ductwork. A contractor can install a cassette type mini split unit recessed in the ceiling without tearing out drywall or tapping into the ductwork. This application saves on time and material expense. The space can be heated or cooled separate from the rest of the building, which can make an efficiency dependent on how the other space is used. Sometimes, a remodel of this type isn’t able to gain access to ductwork because of tight fits, so an alternative of a mini split is highly beneficial.
Efficiently Heat a Small Addition
Like a renovation within a building, a small addition can also benefit by using a system separate from tying into the existing ductwork or needing to expand the ductwork to heat/cool the new addition. The mini split is installed quickly to save on time and materials while creating a comfortable temperature for the new space and it’s use.
Regulate Temperatures in an IT Room
The mini split system makes it easy to create temperature-controlled areas or zones such as conditions needed for an IT room separate from the rest of the building. The equipment can get hot and controlled temperatures help to promote good function of expensive technology equipment.
Even on new buildings, an architectural design may include both ductwork and a mini split system when it comes to including temperature control of specific areas. It is an inexpensive and quick solution where ductwork is cost prohibitive on rooms approximately 1,000 s.f. or less per unit. Units can be mounted to a wall, sat on the floor like a radiator, or recessed in the ceiling. There are many sizes and options to work for a building owner’s needs.
If you have questions, please contact us at 800-WOLGAST or skerby@wolgast.com.