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Difference Between AHU and RTU
AHU (Air Handling Unit) and RTU (Roof Top Unit) are HVAC systems that are used in commercial and industrial buildings. AHUs are used in bigger buildings that require a centralised cooling or heating system, whereas RTUs are self-contained units that are utilised in smaller buildings or when a centralised system is not viable.
Read this article to find out more about AHU and RTU and how they are different from each other.
What is AHU?
An AHU is an indoor unit that is installed within a building and is in charge of circulating and conditioning air throughout the building. A fan, heating and cooling coils, filters, and dampers are common components. AHUs are frequently connected to a central chiller or boiler, which supplies chilled or hot water to the coils. AHUs are created for larger buildings that require a centralised air handling system.
An AHU is a complex device that consists of numerous parts, including −
Fans − These circulate air throughout the system and into the building. They can be centrifugal or axial in design and are sized to meet the airflow requirements of the building.
Filters − These are used to filter particulates from the air before it is circulated throughout the building. Depending on the purpose, they are usually made of fibreglass, activated carbon, or HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters.
Heating and cooling coils − These are used to control the temperature of the air passing through the AHU. They are typically finned or smooth-tubed and made of copper or aluminium. The coils are attached to a central chiller or boiler, which supplies chilled or hot water to the coils.
Dampers − These are used to control airflow and pressure within the AHU. They are normally mounted on the AHU's input and output and can be manual or motorised.
Humidifiers and dehumidifiers − These are used to regulate the humidity in buildings. They can be steam or spray-type and are usually used in situations requiring precise humidity control.
Sound attenuators − These are used to reduce the amount of noise produced by the AHU. They are normally positioned on the AHU's inlet and outlet and can be rectangular or circular in shape.
Control system − This is used to control the AHU's operation. It usually consists of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a pressure sensor, all of which are connected to a central controller that controls the operation of the AHU components.
An AHU is a complex mechanical device that is essential in HVAC systems. Its primary job is to circulate, filter, and condition air within a building to maintain appropriate indoor air quality.
What is RTU?
Roof Top Units (RTUs) are self-contained HVAC systems that are often installed on a building's roof. It is designed to heat, cool, and ventilate a commercial or industrial building. The primary function of an RTU is to manage the temperature and humidity of the interior air and to keep inhabitants comfortable.
An RTU is a complex device that consists of numerous parts, including −
Compressor − This compresses and circulates the refrigerant required to chill the air.
Condenser − This is utilized to transfer heat from the inside air to the outside air.
Evaporator − This is used to chill the air that is pumped throughout the building by evaporating the refrigerant.
Air-handling components − Fans, dampers, and filters are used to circulate and filter the indoor air.
Heating components − Electric heaters or gas-fired burners are used to provide heating during cold weather.
Control system − This is used to control the RTU's operation. It usually consists of temperature and humidity sensors as well as a central controller that controls the operation of the RTU components.
Difference between AHU and RTU
The following table highlights the major differences between AHU and RTU −
Characteristics |
AHU |
RTU |
|---|---|---|
Location |
AHUs are installed indoors, usually in a central mechanical room. |
RTU are installed outdoors, usually on the roof or at ground level. |
Size |
It is used for larger buildings. |
It is used for smaller buildings. |
Distribution of Air |
It circulates and filters air throughout the building. |
It circulates or supplies air to a certain area or zone. |
Heating System |
AHU uses hot water or steam for the heating system. |
RTU uses gas-fired burners or electric heating elements for the heating system. |
Maintenance |
It requires regular maintenance. |
It requires less maintenance. |
Cost |
More Expensive |
Less Expensive |
Energy Efficient |
Less energy efficient due to longer ductwork |
More energy efficient due to shorter ductwork |
Stands for |
Air Handling Unit |
Roof Top Unit |
Components |
air filter, mixing chamber, fan, blower, balancing, and sound attenuators |
air-cooled condenser, evaporator, compressor, expansion device |
Conclusion
In conclusion, AHU and RTU are two types of HVAC systems that are used for air conditioning and ventilation in commercial and industrial buildings. AHUs are interior units that circulate and condition air throughout the building, whereas RTUs are outdoor units that offer heating and cooling.
AHUs are often used in bigger buildings where a centralized air handling system is required, whereas RTUs are self-contained and utilized in smaller buildings or when a centralized system is not viable. When deciding between an AHU and an RTU, it is important to take into account the size and special needs of the building.
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