Typical Applications

Decentralized systems are used in most classes of buildings, particularly where low
initial cost and simplified installation are important, and performance requirements are
less demanding.

Building Type Type of System

Residences, Dormitories Window or Split Units, Heat Pumps or Package Units

Office Buildings (low rise) Split Units, Package Units, Roof top Units

Department Stores Rooftop Units, Package Units

Restaurants Package Units

Motels Package Units, Split Units, Heat Pumps, Roof top Units

Small commercial complexes Package Units, Rooftop Units

Cinema Halls, Theatre Rooftop Units, Package Units, Custom built DX Units

Library Rooftop Units, Package Units, Custom built DX Units

Medical centers, clinics Rooftop Units, Package Units, Custom built DX Units

Note on Roof top and Package Units:

Decentralized systems are considered as standard off shelf catalogue products, which
include large split system, the roof top units and the cabinet package units. Despite not
being distant from the rooms they have to cool (no pipes, no ducts), these are
sometimes defined as central systems because they do not work on a room-by-room
basis. Moreover their cooling capacity is often much higher exceeding 20TR.

For the purpose of this course, the author defines the central system as those systems
which are intended to condition multiple spaces from one base location and are
essentially field assembled equipment comprising chillers, air handling units, ductwork,
chilled water and condenser water distribution and engineered control system.