Central HVAC systems vs. individual (unit) systems In building services engineering, how does the overall energy efficiency of a centralized air-conditioning system compare with that of multiple individual room/packaged units serving the same load?

Introduction / Context:
Central air-conditioning (HVAC) plants typically include high-efficiency chillers or central heat pumps, cooling towers, large air handlers, and centralized controls. The question tests conceptual understanding of why a centralized plant often achieves better overall efficiency than scattered individual units serving the same building or campus.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Equal comfort setpoints for both approaches.
• Comparable envelope, internal loads, and occupancy schedules.
• Properly designed distribution (ducts/piping) and controls for the central system.

Concept / Approach:
Central plants benefit from diversity of loads, superior component efficiencies at larger scales, heat-recovery opportunities, and optimized part-load operation. Individual room units lack load diversity and often cycle on/off inefficiently with poorer maintenance and control.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Load diversity: Not all zones peak simultaneously, so the central plant can run smaller than the sum of nameplates.Equipment efficiency: Large chillers/heat pumps typically have better COP/EER than window or small split units.Integrated controls: Central BMS optimizes staging, setpoints, and chilled-water/air temperatures to minimize energy.Heat recovery: Central systems can reclaim condenser heat for reheat or domestic hot water, improving seasonal performance.

Verification / Alternative check:
Benchmarking data and energy models consistently show lower kWh per ton-hour for central plants in medium-to-large buildings when distribution is well designed and maintained.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Lower/same: ignores diversity, scale, and control advantages.
• Depends only on outdoor temperature: efficiency depends on many variables (control, load profile, equipment type).
• Cannot be compared: they are routinely compared in design studies and audits.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming any central plant is automatically efficient—poorly balanced pumps/fans, excessive static pressure, or fouled heat exchangers can erode benefits. Conversely, assuming small units are always inefficient—modern variable-speed splits can be very good for small, highly zoned buildings.

Final Answer:
higher