A package unit in HVAC provides the perfect solution for heating and cooling structures that present space limitations of constraints. 

Through the choice of the right system and materials, it’s possible to have access to very efficient pieces of equipment. Learn how in our short guide about package units.

What is a package unit?

A package unit is a self-contained piece of equipment that includes all needed components for heating and cooling in a single system.

Typically installed on the roof or next to buildings on concrete slabs, these present a single-cabinet structure, from which ductwork distributes the generated heating and cooling.

There are three types of package units: 

• Cooling-only, air-conditioning systems that work using electricity 
• Systems that combine gas and electric energy for generating heating and air conditioning respectively.
• heat pumps Package units can provide both heating and cooling

Both commercial and private operators can benefit from installing a package unit and having access to the following advantages:

• Space savings, as the package unit presents a compact design 
• Minimized energy costs, as these systems’ reduced design, translates into less demand for energy
• Easy installation and maintenance, as well as reduced costs related to both these processes compared to other types of structure.

Package unit components

• Evaporator or cooling coil
• Evaporator fan
• A combination of compressor and condenser. Condensers in package units might be cooled by surrounding air or water, depending on each project’s needs
• A heating element

How to improve the performance of a package unit?

Achieving great performance and energy efficiency in HVAC systems has become the key topic in the industry for a while now. 

While companies experiment with different options to guarantee energy savings and sustainability in their equipment, there are at least two important areas that should be considered when trying to optimize its performance:

Acoustic performance improvements

HVAC equipment and package units can become a source of undesired noises, thus deteriorating a building’s comfort for its users. 

This should be taken into account both at the design stage and when undertaking rehabilitation processes. In order to improve the equipment’s acoustic performance, it’s key to pick materials that offer acoustic absorption features.

Air leaking prevention in package units

Air leaks can be a cause of major inefficiencies in a package unit’s performance, as it causes energy losses that translate into economic and environmental costs.

Again, the choice of materials when building a package unit is crucial, as it should provide adequate insulation properties and keep heat losses at a minimum.

You might also be interested in: Tips to create sustainable HVAC units

EPP technical parts in package units

The use of EPP foam in HVAC components and package units represents a solution to guarantee this equipment’s optimal performance and have access to the economical savings it entails.

Through the use of EPP technical parts, it’s possible to improve the system’s acoustic and thermal performance. This is because of this material’s outstanding features, which include:

• Thermal insulation and thermal stability

• Acoustic absorption

• Lightweight

• Durable and resistant

• Sustainable. This material’s claim for sustainability is based on various reasons. First, it enhances the system’s energy consumption and efficiency, thus minimizing its environmental impact. Secondly, the material itself is 100% recyclable and presents a low carbon footprint during its production.
• Versatile: EPP foam can be easily incorporated into a variety of designs in package units, as its production processes involve the generation of custom, molded parts that can be aligned to each project’s needs.

All in all, EPP parts have become a key material to design and improve HVAC technical parts, including the generation of optimized and efficient package units. 

At Knauf Industries we work to develop EPP HVAC technical parts that help our clients meet their goals and expectations, improving their equipment energy efficiency and opening the door to the additional advantages this entails.

Want to learn more about how EPP foam can be incorporated into a package unit and how it drives this equipment’s efficiency a step further? Download our free Technical Manual about expanded foam in the industry and discover more about current possibilities in HVAC energy performance.