Monday, 22 April 2019

System Down? 5 Most Common Commercial HVAC Issues 

You rely on your commercial heating and air conditioning system to keep the work environment comfortable and safe for employees without putting your budget in the red. Staying on top of preventive maintenance tasks is key to ensuring the reliable, efficient operation of your system. However, even well-maintained systems require attention from time to time. What causes these unexpected issues?

Clogged Filters

Dirty, clogged filters are a common – and easily preventable – reason for commercial HVAC repair and service calls. Before picking up the phone for help, check your systems’ air filter. Dirty filters force your system to work harder, putting it under stress and decreasing performance and lifespan. Monitor filters frequently and change them at least quarterly for optimal efficiency. This will also improve the indoor air quality in your building, trapping dust, pollen, allergens, and other pollutants that can negatively impact your staff and productivity.

Dirty Condenser/Coils
As with clogged filters, a dirty, clogged condenser or coil can significantly impact HVAC performance.

Leaking Refrigerant

Your system relies on liquid refrigerant contained with the coils of the HVAC system to cool, heat, and dehumidify the air in your workspace. If the system doesn’t contain enough refrigerant, it can’t perform this task as well and the air it produces will not be very cold/warm. This not only makes workers and patrons uncomfortable, but forces your condenser to work harder leading to more (and increasingly costly) repair needs.

Thermostat Malfunction

This issue is commonly overlooked when a system goes down. It is often assumed the issue is with the mechanical components of the system, when it’s actually a problem with the thermostat. As this small piece of equipment regulates the timing of heated or cooled air produced by your unit, when it’s malfunctioning, you could struggle with intermittent temperature fluctuations that make workers and customers uncomfortable. The best commercial HVAC contractors in Philadelphia can quickly identify this issue, even in workspaces with multiple thermostats.

Improper Airflow

Conditioned air is distributed through ductwork and vent registers before it reaches each room, section, or zone of your business. Dampers are used to alter the flow, reducing airflow in one area to deliver additional flow to another area. When these dampers are not properly set up, it can cause an imbalance where one room heats faster than the other.

Age

We know you may not want to think about it, but all systems have a lifespan. Over time components fail and older systems utilizing soon-to-be banned coolant simply reach a point where they can no longer keep the pace.

Neglected Maintenance

Routine regular maintenance helps you identify minor issues before they become major repairs or result in system failure. If you and your staff have a hard time keeping up with these needs, enlisting in a preventive maintenance plan is a wise investment.
System still down for the count? Stop fighting with your system and knockout repair issues fast with the help of knowledgeable commercial HVAC repair service professionals at H&H Commercial Services today.

Monday, 8 April 2019

Time for a Commercial HVAC Tune-Up? Don't Forget This 

Time for spring HVAC maintenance? To ensure your commercial heating and cooling system will run reliably throughout the summer, you will have to tackle a long preventive maintenance checklist. When managing your system’s preventive maintenance needs, make sure you don’t overlook these key tasks. Some tasks are easily handled by your in-house maintenance crew, while some will require the expertise of trusted commercial HVAC contractors in NJ.

As Soon as Weather Warms Tackle these In-House Tasks

  • Clean debris surrounding the exterior unit, including weeds, leaves, and trash that can thwart airflow to the system.
  • Change your HVAC filter. Dirty filters force your system to work harder, costing you in energy dollars and shortening system lifespan.
  • Check the drains for blockages and the drain pan for signs of mold and rust.
  • Check coolant levels, and if low, contact an HVAC pro to top them off.

Schedule Annual Preventive Maintenance for a Commercial HVAC Pro

After you have completed the above in-house tasks, schedule annual maintenance you’re your local commercial HVAC company. Professionally trained and experienced, they can identify common and uncommon heating and air conditioning issues. What can a pro manage your maintenance team cannot?
  • Identify wiring issues and damage.
  • Perform a voltage test.
  • Inspect for damage and lubricate the moving parts in your system.
  • Check belts for wear and tear or dry rot.
  • Check coolant levels and safely add/remove the appropriate coolant.
  • Add cooling system additives necessary for protecting system components from corrosion.
  • Safely clean internal and external components, including the evaporator and condenser coils and ignition system.
  • Repair or replace severely bent coils.
  • Check your thermostat and zoning for proper settings and function.
  • Perform any needed repairs uncovered during the inspection before weather extremes hit.

Don’t Let Preventive Maintenance Needs Slide

We know you’ve got a lot on your plate, but your business will come to a screeching halt if your system goes down due to neglected maintenance. Annual preventive maintenance in the spring and fall, before weather extremes occur, can save your business time and money. Routine maintenance can reduce the risk of breakdown up to 95%, so you won’t be on the long list of those waiting for emergency commercial heating and cooling repair in a heat wave or snow storm. With your system running at peak efficiency, you can also reduce your energy expenditures and carbon footprint, saving up to 30% on monthly energy costs according the Department of Energy. Routine maintenance also extends the life of your system, reducing the likelihood you’ll need to replace your commercial system anytime soon. It also helps you maintain factory warranty coverage, showing proof you properly care for your system and its costly components.
Having a hard time keeping up with commercial HVAC maintenance needs? Simplify things with the help of the commercial heating and cooling contractors at H&H Commercial Services. Learn more about our affordable and convenient maintenance agreements today.