Different types of HVAC systems
Package Systems
Package Systems are a type of unitary system, and also referred to as distributed systems. They're common in small to medium-sized commercial buildings. They are typically either a package air conditioner (more common in older buildings) or a packaged heat pump (more common in newer buildings). Package systems include ventilation of the space, in which air can be discharged vertically or horizontally.
Split HVAC Systems
Split Systems are a type of unitary system. A split system has equipment outside the building and inside the building and doesn't ventilate spaces. The unit outside is typically the one you can find, while the unit inside may not be visible. One way to identify a split system is by the refrigerant pipes connecting the outside system and the building.
Centralized Systems
Centralized systems are common in larger buildings, and have an air handler that serves part of or the whole building. These types of systems are very common on our University campus, but you may not see them often when doing audits of small to medium-sized commercial buildings.
