When it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for commercial buildings, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But one of the most popular and widely used systems across the U.S. is the rooftop unit, or RTU. These compact, all-in-one HVAC systems have been a go-to option for decades—and for good reason.
If you’re planning a new facility or upgrading your existing system, you might be wondering: Are RTUs a good choice for your commercial building? Let’s take a closer look at how RTUs work and when they’re the right fit.
What Is an RTU?
An RTU (rooftop unit) is a type of packaged HVAC system where all components—including the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and air handler—are housed in a single unit and installed on the roof of a building. RTUs are typically direct expansion (DX) systems, meaning they use refrigerant to cool the air, and heat is often provided through a gas furnace or electric coils located within the unit.
They’re common in retail stores, office buildings, schools, and other mid-sized commercial facilities that require reliable climate control without the complexity of large, custom-built HVAC systems.
Benefits of Rooftop Units for Commercial Buildings?
RTUs remain a favorite among building owners and facility managers for several key reasons:
1. All-in-One Convenience
RTUs are self-contained units that require minimal space and infrastructure. All critical HVAC components are packed into a single cabinet, simplifying installation, operation, and maintenance.
2. Saves Interior and Ground Level Space
Because RTUs are installed on the roof, they don’t take up valuable square footage on the ground or inside your building. This is especially useful in densely populated areas or facilities where every inch of usable space matters.
3. Simplified Maintenance Access
Having HVAC equipment on the roof means service technicians can access and work on the system without disrupting building operations or daily activities. This also helps reduce noise inside the building.
4. Scalable and Modular
As your building grows, your HVAC system can too. RTUs are modular, meaning you can add more units as needed to accommodate expansions or increased demand. This scalability makes them an ideal choice for growing businesses.
5. Zone Control
Multiple RTUs can be used to serve different zones within a building. This allows you to control temperature independently in each area, increasing energy efficiency and occupant comfort. (Read more about Commercial HVAC System Zoning in our recent blog post)
6. Cost-Effective
RTUs tend to have lower upfront costs compared to more complex HVAC systems, such as chilled water systems or variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. Their all-in-one design also helps minimize installation time and labor.
When RTUs Might Not Be the Right Fit
While RTUs are a great solution for many buildings, they’re not ideal for every situation. Consider the following scenarios where an RTU might not be the best option:
High-Rise Buildings: Multi-story buildings with many floors may have difficulty distributing air efficiently from rooftop units, making other systems like VRF or central plants more effective.
Architectural Restrictions: Some buildings—particularly in historic or urban areas—have restrictions on visible rooftop equipment, which could limit RTU placement or require additional aesthetic screening.
Highly Specialized Environments: Facilities like labs, cleanrooms, or surgical centers may require precise humidity and temperature control across many zones. In these cases, custom-designed systems or VRF setups may offer better performance and flexibility.
Ideal Applications for RTUs
RTUs are a strong fit for buildings that require reliable, straightforward HVAC performance without the need for extensive customization.
Some of the most common applications include:
- Retail Stores
- Office Buildings
- Schools and Universities
- Restaurants
- Warehouses
- Light Industrial Facilities
- Community Centers or Religious Buildings
How Long Do RTUs Last?
With proper maintenance, an RTU can last 15 to 20 years. Regular filter changes, coil cleaning, and inspections help prevent wear and tear, ensuring your system stays efficient and reliable over the long term.
At Tessiers, we offer preventative maintenance plans that help you get the most life out of your RTU and keep your system operating at peak performance.
See RTUs in Action: Tessiers Installs 22 Rooftop Units
Curious what it looks like when RTUs are installed at scale? Check out how the Tessiers team safely and successfully installed 22 rooftop units on a 330,000 square foot warehouse in Sioux Falls, SD: RTU Unit Installation with Helicopter.
Due to site constraints and the reach required, our experienced preconstruction team determined that a helicopter was the most effective solution. With detailed planning, safety protocols, and incredible coordination, each unit was installed in under three minutes.
Are RTUs Right for You?
If you’re looking for a reliable, cost-effective, and space-saving HVAC solution for your commercial building, an RTU may be a great fit. At Tessiers, we’ve installed and maintained RTUs for a wide range of industries across the Midwest—and we know how to evaluate your building’s needs and recommend the best solution.
Whether you’re designing a new facility or upgrading your existing HVAC system, our team is ready to help you plan, install, and maintain the right system for your space and budget.