How to Choose the Right Air Conditioning System

Factors to Consider to make sure you purchase the correct system for your business.

Choosing the right air conditioning system, to be kept warm or cool, is a critical decision for any business. Whether you run a small office in Sheffield, a bustling retail unit in Leeds, or a healthcare facility in Manchester, your choice of HVAC system can impact everything from employee comfort to energy efficiency and long-term operational costs.

At ProAir Engineers, we’ve worked with hundreds of commercial clients across Yorkshire, Lancashire and the East Midlands helping them design and install air conditioning solutions tailored to their unique needs. In this short guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when investing in a new system.

1. Understand Your Business Environment

Different business types have different air conditioning requirements. Start by evaluating the layout, usage patterns, and size of your premises:

• Offices – Typically require zoned cooling for various departments. Systems should operate quietly to maintain a professional and undisturbed working atmosphere. Smart controls can help different zones maintain comfort efficiently. Being able to zone is key to happy employees as there’s always someone who is hot when someone else is cold!
• 
  
• Retail – Customer comfort is a top priority, as is maintaining an inviting atmosphere. On a hot day customers need to feel cool and refreshed, whereas on a cold day want to shelter from the outside. A happy customer equals more sales. Discreet, aesthetically pleasing systems are also important, especially in shopfront areas.
• 
  
• Warehouses – Large, open spaces may demand powerful airflow systems with efficient air distribution. Temperature-sensitive stock may also require consistent climate control. Investing in the right system, to make the environment warm or cold, can save tens of thousands in lost inventory.
• 
  
• Hospitals, Clinics, and Care Homes – Must prioritise air purification, temperature control, and redundancy. Systems should be easy to maintain and reliable 24/7.

• Restaurants and Bars – Require powerful, low-noise systems to service both public seating areas and hot kitchen zones. Effective odour extraction and ventilation are also essential. Making sure the correct airflow is important in hospitality environments as food can get cold quickly if airflow is too powerful.
• 
  
• Classrooms and Laboratories – Need controlled airflow and minimal disruption. Air quality and the correct temperature in the class room can directly influence concentration, health, and safety.
• 
  

2. Consider System Type

There are several commercial air conditioning types to choose from:

• Split Systems – Best for small, single-zone spaces like independent offices or shops. Simple to install and cost-effective, but not suitable for large areas.
• 
  
• Multi-Split Systems – Ideal for medium-sized businesses. One outdoor unit connects to several indoor units, allowing for control across multiple rooms or zones.
• 
  
• VRF/VRV Systems – Efficient and scalable, suitable for larger buildings such as hotels or office complexes. Offer simultaneous heating and cooling across different zones.
• 
  
• Ducted Systems – Completely hidden with only grilles visible. Great for businesses where aesthetics matter, such as luxury retail or client-facing spaces. Provide even air distribution.
• 
  

ProAir Engineers will recommend the right configuration based on your business needs and future growth plans. We can help you scope a future proof solution that is affordable now but also will provide a foundation for future expansion of the system should that be needed.

3. Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

Investing in an energy-efficient system can significantly reduce monthly operational expenses. Consider:

• High SEER/EER Ratings – The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) help determine the system’s performance. Higher ratings indicate better energy use.
• 
  
• Inverter Technology – Adjusts power usage based on demand. Rather than turning on and off, inverter systems regulate compressor speed, providing smoother operation and lower energy use.
• 
  
• Smart Controls – Programmable thermostats and IoT-enabled systems offer automatic adjustments and remote monitoring, enabling more efficient use and less waste.
• 
  
• Energy Recovery Ventilation – Some systems reuse energy from exhaust air to precondition incoming air, further improving efficiency.
• 
  

Our experts at ProAir Engineers can carry out a forecast analysis to show potential energy savings over time.

4. Installation Practicalities

No two buildings are the same, and each installation brings its own considerations:

• Space Constraints – Limited roof or wall space can restrict outdoor unit placement. We help find the best layout to suit both form and function.
• 
  
• Aesthetic Requirements – Particularly in customer-facing environments, units must blend into the design. Ceiling cassettes or ducted systems are often preferred.
• 
  
• Noise Levels – In settings like schools, hospitals or meeting rooms, quiet operation is essential. We choose systems with the best acoustic profiles.
• 
  
• Access and Regulations – Some locations require special equipment, permissions, or planning to meet legal standards. We ensure full compliance from day one.
• 
  

Our team conducts comprehensive site assessments across Yorkshire, Lancashire and the East Midlands to ensure smooth, disruption-free installation of commercial air conditioning systems.

5. Maintenance and Reliability

Protecting your investment means ensuring consistent, ongoing performance. Key maintenance considerations include:

• Scheduled Servicing – Routine maintenance extends system life, reduces breakdown risk, and keeps performance at optimal levels.
• 
  
• Filter and Component Checks – Dirty filters and worn parts affect efficiency and indoor air quality. Regular inspections are essential by ProAir Engineers
• 
  
• Emergency Support – Downtime can be costly. We offer responsive callout services to fix issues quickly and minimise disruption.
• 
  
• Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) – Custom maintenance plans tailored to your system and usage, helping to avoid expensive reactive repairs.
• 
  

At ProAir Engineers, we offer flexible service packages that keep your systems running smoothly all year round. Remember, prevention is better and cheaper than the cure. A cost effective service package will save time, disruption and money.



6. Compliance and Sustainability

Modern air conditioning systems must align with environmental goals and legal standards:

• F-Gas Compliance – UK law mandates the reduction of certain greenhouse gases. Our systems are installed and maintained to comply with all current F-Gas regulations.
• 
  
• Low-GWP Refrigerants – We install systems that use refrigerants with a low Global Warming Potential (GWP), reducing environmental impact.
• 
  
• Net Zero Readiness – Supporting your business’s journey to carbon neutrality with energy-efficient systems that align with government targets.
• 
  
• ESOS and TM44 Inspections – We support commercial clients in meeting their Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) and Air Conditioning Inspection obligations.
• 
  

7. Budget and Return on Investment

Cost is always a factor, but it should be balanced with long-term value. Think about:

• Initial vs Lifetime Costs – A cheaper system may have higher running costs. We help assess ROI over time.
• 
  
• Operational Efficiency – Lower energy bills can lead to significant savings across the year.
• 
  
• Employee Productivity – Comfortable working conditions lead to better focus, fewer sick days, and higher morale.
• 
  
• Building Value – A well-maintained, energy-efficient HVAC system can add value to your commercial property.
• 
  

ProAir Engineers can assist with cost planning, grants, and advice to help you invest wisely.

Final Thoughts: Partner with ProAir Engineers

Investing in the right air conditioning system is about more than staying cool (or warm)— it’s about creating healthier workplaces, improving energy use, and reducing long-term costs.

Contact ProAir Engineers today to arrange a free site visit or consultation, and let’s find the perfect solution for your business across Yorkshire, Lancashire and the East Midlands.