Are you ready to take advantage of everything an air curtain can offer to your business? Great. From generating energy savings to keeping dust, odors, or flying insects out of an interior space, there are many excellent reasons to add one to a building. Perhaps you’ve already selected the precise piece of hardware you’ll need for your structure, or maybe you want to develop a sense of the entire process before you begin a decision-making effort. Either way, proper installation of a new air curtain is just as important as making the right selection in the first place. Ultimately, it can have a bearing on how effectively the unit operates in its new home. So, who is it that actually handles this process, and what is essential to know about air curtain installation?
Suppliers and Installers Are Typically Different
The business from which you choose to purchase an air curtain will rarely be the same company that provides you with installation services. Because each unit comes with detailed instructions and parameters for installation, manufacturers and others typically assume that the end user will take on the responsibility for arranging installation. In other words, if you were expecting to find an “all in one” package deal, it might be time to reconsider while making other arrangements for installation. This separation can help to keep operating costs for suppliers lower, however, savings which can then be passed on to consumers like you.
However, that doesn’t mean that suppliers have no role to play in installation. Your supplier may be able to help point you in the right direction for your locale, for example. More importantly, a supplier can assist you in understanding how to navigate some of the challenges you may face. For example, there may be obstructions in the location you’d like to place a new curtain. How can you make it all work? Your supplier can give you tips to keep in mind before commencing installation.
Air Curtains Aren’t a DIY Job
So, does this mean that you should prepare to dig out the old toolbox, read up on the new manual, and start trying to tackle the process of installation on your own? No — in fact, doing so could be dangerous and may risk rendering the unit less efficient in operation. Many steps go into installation, from taking careful measurements to understanding how to work around challenges in the environment.
More importantly, some steps in installation absolutely demand the presence of a professional. Consider the amount of new wiring that may be necessary to operate an air curtain if there is currently no easily accessible source of power in its chosen location. Likewise, internal wiring will need to be installed and connected safely. Anyone other than a licensed electrician should never perform this work. Not only is that the safest way to power up your curtain and ensure it is ready to go, but it also allows you to trust that the installation can stand the test of time.
With that in mind, choosing someone who can handle the entire process becomes more critical. A general contractor, perhaps one that already works for your business on a regular basis, is likely to have some experience with hardware installation like this. Explore your options with a contractor if one is available to you, and share installation documentation for a clear discussion on expectations and requirements.
However, HVAC professionals can often supply you with their services in this area, too. Since air curtains could technically be considered a type of “ventilation” equipment, you will find many HVAC companies who understand this technology and what you hope to achieve through its use. Even better: most air conditioning companies will have licensed electricians on staff or on call, since so much of their work also requires working closely with power lines and wiring setups. When it comes to particularly challenging installation scenarios, HVAC pros may be the preferable choice when compared to a general contractor.
Achieving a Successful Air Curtain Installation
Working with licensed and experienced pros is important, but understanding how to coordinate with them on proper installation is a vital step, too. The instructions supplied along with the unit should be followed very carefully; turning to the manufacturer or supplier can be most helpful with addressing any questions or concerns that may arise during the process. Installers should keep in mind that your curtain will need a sufficient amount of accessible air to operate correctly, just as they should take care when positioning the curtain.
Proper positioning is essential for maximum operational efficiency; otherwise, air will be able to continue leaking out of climate controlled spaces at the bottom or the sides of the curtain. Consult with your electrician to ensure power can reach the area where operation will work best, then coordinate with your HVAC team or general contractor to execute installation with precision.
Start the Process by Finding the Right Hardware
By developing a better understanding of how the air curtain installation process works, you can prepare to locate a partner that will meet your business’s needs and leave you with functional new equipment. Reaching that point must start somewhere, though; have you settled on an air curtain to suit your purposes yet? At Air Door Distributors, we combine years of experience in this industry with access to a wide range of products developed by leaders such as Berner and Mars to create the ideal experience. Whether you need help locating the right hardware or you have questions about how to implement certain types of installations, you can reach out to our team for friendly advice.
