The Workhorse of Commercial HVAC Systems
If you’ve ever looked up at a commercial building and seen a large metal box sitting on the roof, that’s probably a rooftop unit, or RTU. But what does it actually do? And why is it so common in commercial HVAC systems?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Rooftop Unit (RTU)?
A rooftop unit is a self-contained heating and cooling system that sits on the roof of a commercial building. Unlike split systems that have components inside and outside the building, an RTU combines everything—air handler, heating, cooling coils, filters, and controls—in a single metal cabinet.
From restaurants to retail stores, RTUs are used in all types of commercial applications due to their efficiency, flexibility, and space-saving design.
What Does an RTU Actually Do?
An RTU pulls outside air, conditions it (heats or cools), and delivers it into the building through ductwork. Here’s what it handles:
- Cooling – Uses refrigerant coils and compressors to cool down warm air.
- Heating – Often powered by gas burners or electric heating elements.
- Ventilation – Brings in fresh outdoor air while removing stale indoor air.
- Filtration – Removes dust, pollen, and particles from the air.
- Air distribution – Uses fans to push the conditioned air through ducts.
Think of it as a climate control center sitting right on the roof.
Why Are RTUs Popular?
- Space Saving – No need for indoor mechanical rooms.
- Easy Access for Maintenance – Technicians can service the unit without entering your business.
- Scalable – Multiple RTUs can be added as your building grows.
- All-in-One System – Simplifies installation and wiring.
At Vences Contracting Group, we install and service RTUs for offices, retail centers, warehouses, and more—tailored to each project’s airflow and zoning requirements.
Are All Rooftop Units the Same?
No. RTUs vary in:
- Capacity (typically from 3 to 50+ tons)
- Energy efficiency (SEER/EER ratings)
- Heating type (electric, gas, or heat pump)
- Add-ons like economizers, humidity control, or smart thermostats
Choosing the right RTU depends on your building size, occupancy, usage patterns, and local climate.https://theengineeringmindset.com/rtu-rooftop-units-explained/
Do I Need a Rooftop Unit?
If you’re managing a commercial space and need reliable temperature control, an RTU is likely the most practical choice—especially if:
- You don’t have space for large indoor equipment
- You want to reduce noise inside the building
- You want fast installation and simple access for service
Final Thought
A rooftop unit does more than just blow cold air—it’s a complete climate control system, engineered for commercial buildings. Choosing the right RTU—and the right contractor—is key to long-term performance and energy savings.
At Vences Contracting Group, we specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining rooftop HVAC systems across Central Texas. We make sure your RTU is sized right, code-compliant, and built to last.
Based in Austin | Serving all of Central Texas
(737) 888-9106 – Let’s talk about your rooftop HVAC needs
