Air-conditioning a shop is a complex task, as a well-functioning shop air-conditioning system must simultaneously ensure the comfort of customers, the well-being of staff and the cost-effective operation of the shop. If the system is undersized, the indoor units are positioned incorrectly or the specific characteristics of the premises are not taken into account, this can result in higher electricity bills and may also make customers feel uncomfortable whilst inside.
In this article, we outline the factors to consider when planning the air conditioning for a shop, the different systems available, and the typical mistakes that should be avoided right from the planning stage.
Why is air conditioning in a shop different from that in an office or a flat?
The air-conditioning system in a shop cannot be sized in the same way as that in an office of a similar floor area, as retail premises its thermal load is of a completely different nature. In a shop, several factors can contribute to a significant heat load at the same time:
- large glass entrances and shop windows
- frequent opening of doors
- a steady flow of customers
- bright lighting
As a result, there may be a significant difference in the cooling requirements of two shops of the same size. A south-facing, street-front boutique, for example, may require considerably more cooling capacity than a shop of the same size located in a shaded shopping centre.
What factors do we take into account when designing the in-store climate?
Floor area is just one factor
When selecting the appropriate system, a number of technical parameters must be taken into account:
- the ceiling height of the shop
- the dimensions of the glass surfaces
- the orientation of the building
- the degree of shading
- the design of the roof structure
A showroom with high ceilings, for example, has a much larger volume than a smaller shop of a similar floor area, so a system with a different capacity will be required.
Customer footfall matters too
The mere presence of customers generates heat. A crowd can easily form in a small shop, whilst in a busy supermarket or chemist’s, peak periods can place a significant additional strain on the premises.
Indoor heat-generating appliances
There may be equipment in the shop that generates a significant amount of heat. Examples of such equipment include:
- LED or spot lighting
- computers
- cash registers
- advertising displays
- refrigerated display counters
- baking equipment
- coffee machines
These factors must be taken into account as early as the design stage.
Is the shop open or closed?
It makes a difference whether a shop opens onto an internal corridor in a shopping centre or has a direct street-front entrance. In the case of street-front shops, the constant opening and closing of the doors allows a lot of warm air to enter in summer, whilst in winter, significant heat loss must also be taken into account.
The comfort of staff is just as important
In many shops, cashiers or shop assistants often find themselves working all day in the direct draught of the air conditioning. This can cause discomfort and, in the long term, may even lead to health problems. It is therefore worth paying attention to ensuring proper air distribution.
What sort of air-conditioning system would you recommend for a shop?
Choosing the ideal system always depends on the size, layout and function of the shop.
Side wall split air conditioning
For smaller shops, a modern inverter split air-conditioning unit is often sufficient.
Benefits:
- favourable investment costs
- quick installation
- energy-efficient operation
- can also be used for heating
For smaller boutiques, hairdressers or service premises, this is often the solution that offers the best value for money.
Cassette air conditioner
In shops with suspended ceilings, coffered ceiling systems are particularly popular.
Their advantages:
- even air distribution
- a less noticeable draught
- understated appearance
- greater performance
For medium-sized retail premises, this is often the most practical option.
Ventilated system
Air-conditioning with ductwork is a common feature in premium shops or exclusive showrooms.
Benefits:
- an almost invisible appearance
- excellent air distribution
- quiet operation
- a consistent interior design scheme
- VRV systems for larger shops
If a shop consists of several rooms – for example, with a separate sales area, warehouse, office and service rooms – then It’s worth considering a VRV system. Such systems make it possible to maintain different temperatures in individual rooms, whilst ensuring that the entire system operates in an energy-efficient manner.
You can read more about this „Office air conditioning — VRV/VRF systems and BMS integration” in our article entitled […], in which we explain how multi-zone systems work and how they are intelligently controlled.
Where should the indoor unit be installed?
The right positioning has a decisive influence on one’s sense of comfort. It is not advisable directly at the above a till, fitting room or workbench install the indoor unit. It is equally important that shelving systems or tall pieces of furniture do not obstruct the free flow of air. The aim is always to maintain a consistent temperature without any draughts.
The most common mistakes made when installing shop air conditioning systems
An undersized system
One of the most common mistakes is to choose a unit based solely on floor area, without taking actual usage patterns into account. In such cases, the unit runs continuously at maximum capacity, yet is still unable to cool the shop adequately.
Inadequate air distribution
If the air conditioning blows cold air directly onto staff or customers, it makes them feel uncomfortable.
Ignoring the shop window
A sunlit shop window can generate an extremely high heat load. If this is not taken into account during the design phase, the system will operate under constant overload during the summer.
Overdue maintenance
Commercial air-conditioning systems are subject to more intensive use, which is why regular cleaning is particularly important. A lack of maintenance increases energy consumption, impairs air quality and reduces performance.
Selection based solely on the purchase price
A cheaper appliance may seem like a better investment at first glance, but due to higher energy consumption, more frequent repairs and a shorter lifespan, it can actually end up being significantly more expensive in the long run.
Energy efficiency and operating costs
A well-designed shop air-conditioning system creates a more comfortable environment and reduces operating costs. It plays an important role in optimising consumption correct sizing, zone control and regular maintenance.
In the case of larger retail outlets, the energy-efficient systems They can pay for themselves particularly quickly, as even a small difference in energy consumption, given 10–14 hours of operation per day, results in significant annual savings.
If you’re also interested in cooling solutions for larger facilities, it’s worth reading „Industrial cooling – energy-efficient and sustainable industrial solutions” our article entitled […], in which we set out in detail the design considerations for high-performance systems.
Why is it worth involving an air-conditioning engineer as early as the design phase?
Many problems can be avoided if an air-conditioning specialist is involved in the planning stage right from the outset of the shop’s design. At this stage, it is still easy to determine the route of the pipework, the location of electrical outlets, the optimal positioning of the outdoor unit, or even the design of the suspended ceiling.
Forward-thinking planning can also save significant costs on subsequent demolition and refurbishment, whilst ensuring a more aesthetically pleasing end result.
Frequently asked questions about shop air conditioning
Is a split-system air conditioner enough for a small shop?
For many smaller shops, the answer is yes, but the precise answer can only ever be given on the basis of an on-site survey and a calculation of the heat load.
What capacity air conditioner do I need?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this. As well as floor area, the amount of glazing, the building’s orientation, footfall and internal heat generation are also key factors.
Can it also be used for heating?
Yes. State-of-the-art inverter heat pump air-conditioning systems can be operated economically during the transitional period and, under the right conditions, can even be used as the main heating system.
How often does it need servicing?
For shops with high footfall, at least two maintenance checks per year are generally recommended; in cases of intensive use, more frequent inspections may also be necessary.
Summary
When selecting the right air-conditioning system for a shop, it is important to take into account the shop’s size, orientation, glazed areas, customer footfall, internal heat-generating equipment and staff comfort. A well-designed system provides a more pleasant shopping experience and improves the working environment, whilst also reducing energy consumption and operating costs in the long term.
For this very reason, it is advisable to base decisions for every retail outlet on an on-site survey and professional planning. A suitably selected system will reliably support the shop’s operations for many years to come, whilst contributing to customer satisfaction and cost-effective operation.