Everything That Can Go Wrong with Your Commercial HVAC System
Businesses need reliable HVAC systems to keep customers and employees happy and comfortable. Steady heating and cooling, as well as proper ventilation, are key. Commercial HVAC systems should also be energy-efficient, helping your business reduce its carbon footprint and save money.
In Parts 1 and 2 of this series, we told you about the components that make up a commercial HVAC system, and what you should consider when you need to upgrade or replace your unit. Now, we’ll tell you about some common commercial HVAC problems – what causes them, how to spot them, and how to prevent or remedy them.
Duct Problems
Hot and cool air travels through the building in a system of ducts. Dampers in each duct help direct airflow. A problem in the duct, or its damper, will negatively impact the efficiency of your commercial HVAC unit.
Common issues include clogs, corrosion, leaks, and imbalanced dampers. Ducts can also break loose or get dented. Problems in the ductwork show themselves with inconsistent building temperature, loud noises, strange smells, and more.
Since so much can go wrong with the ductwork, it’s important to get your HVAC system inspected and serviced regularly and have a professional check out any failure you may be experiencing.
Clogged Air Filters
HVAC units have filters to trap allergens, dirt, and dust in the air and keep them from getting into your airway. These things collect on the filters. When filters get too clogged, the HVAC system will not work properly.
Signs your filters need changing usually present themselves in your nose – your allergies will flare up in some cases. Dirty filters can damage your system, either by contributing to frozen coils or taxing the whole system to the point of early failure.
Changing filters is easy if your HVAC unit is easily accessible. If you have a rooftop or an otherwise difficult-to-reach unit, call a professional.
Bad Thermostat
Thermostats play a key role in the timing and airflow of your commercial HVAC unit. And, if they go bad, they can cause what seem like serious issues.
Since your thermostat controls when the HVAC kicks on and for how long, if it isn’t working, your HVAC won’t work the way it should. Try changing the batteries in your thermostat first, and if that doesn’t work, check in with a professional that can help diagnose the problem.
Compressor Issues
Compressors are the high-dollar component of your HVAC unit and depends on other parts of the system to work properly. When refrigerant gets low, the compressor will be sluggish and could overheat.
Since federal law demands a license for handling refrigerant chemicals, make sure you call a professional when there are problems with the compressor. Refrigerant chemicals are toxic, flammable, and can cause asphyxiation.
Other things that can go wrong with your commercial HVAC unit include:
- Problems with the condenser if the evaporator coils are dirty or clogged, it can greatly impact the HVAC’s efficiency.
- Circuit breaker woes – when the system is working too hard, it can trip the breaker, causing everything to shut down.
- Ignition issues – Age and wear can wear down burners, flame sensors (depending on the unit), and the pilot light (also depending on the unit). Regular maintenance helps prevent issues with the ignition.
- And, of course, the unknown problem that will require a professional to sleuth out.
The Number One Culprit Behind Most Commercial HVAC Problems
Can you guess the most common cause of commercial HVAC issues? It’s a lack of regular maintenance. You can avoid so many problems when your system is checked, inspected, and tested on at least a bi-annual basis.
You’ll save money, conserve energy, and extend the life of your commercial HVAC unit. We are here to help! Contact us to schedule a maintenance checkup, repair, or to talk to us about upgrading your commercial HVAC system.
