Choosing The Right HVAC Contractor For Your Establishment

If you own any kind of commercial building, you need to have a good commercial HVAC contractor on your list. This way, you always have someone to call if your system needs repairs or maintenance, or if you think it’s time to replace some equipment. In most areas, there are at least a few HVAC commercial companies to choose between. Here are some tips to help you pick the one that best serves your needs.

What Types of Systems Do They Service?

There are many different types of commercial HVAC systems. There are rooftop units, boiler systems, and more. As you search for commercial heating and cooling near me, make sure you focus on companies that service the type of equipment you have. Not all companies work on all kinds of equipment.

Do They Have Other Clients in Your Industry?

This is most important to consider if you have a specialized kind of facility such as a pool room, a grow room, or a server room. These buildings have specific HVAC needs, and the contractors who work on them often need specialized knowledge and skills. For example, pool rooms require pool dehumidification equipment, and not every HVAC company works with such equipment.

What Brands Do They Work On?

Some commercial HVAC companies have contracts that require that they only work on certain brands. Other companies service all makes and models. When possible, you want to hire commercial HVAC service contractors who work on a variety of brands. This means you’ll have more options when you replace your equipment. It also means you can generally have one commercial HVAC company work on your heater, air conditioner, dehumidifier, and so forth – even if your equipment is all different brands. (This is common in older buildings.)

Do They Offer Maintenance Contracts?

Commercial HVAC equipment requires plenty of maintenance to keep it working well. You’ll want to change the filters often. Plus, your system may need some lubrication and a tune-up now and then. To save yourself some time, look for an HVAC company that offers maintenance contracts. Under such a contract, you usually pay a fee that covers a variety of periodic maintenance tasks.

Do They Offer Installations?

Most commercial HVAC companies offer installations, but some only perform repairs and maintenance on existing systems. Since you never know when your system will fail and need to be replaced, it’s a good idea to hire a company that offers installations from the get-go.

If you’ve been busy searching for commercial HVAC mechanical contractors near me, the tips above should help you choose the one that best meets your needs. Don’t hesitate to contact H & H Commercial Services if you’re looking for knowledgeable, experienced commercial HVAC contractors near Philadelphia.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/choosing-the-right-hvac-contractor-for-your-establishment/

Preparing Your Commercial HVAC System for the Winter

While it’s still nice and warm outside right now, winter is coming. Along with it will come plenty of snow, strong winds, and chilly temperatures. All of these elements can be hard on your commercial HVAC system. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to prepare your commercial HVAC system for the cold. If you check these items off your list, you’ll be in great shape going into the winter.

Change the Filter

The HVAC filter captures dust and dirt so it does not get scattered through your building. However, once a filter becomes too full, the HVAC system has to work harder to get air through it. This can lead to higher energy bills, and it also increases wear and tear on your HVAC equipment.

It’s wise to change your HVAC filter before winter. Order a couple of extras to keep on-hand so you can change the filter every month or two during the heating season. If you have a commercial HVAC maintenance contract, filter changes are likely included in that contract.

Seal Any Leaks

Leaky ductwork can lead to wasted energy, and it can also interfere with proper heat distribution throughout the building. Have a commercial heating contractor look over your ducts. They can seal any leaks and replace any ductwork that may show more extensive damage. While they are there, your contractor will likely also fill any gaps around vents to prevent cold air from leaking into your home.

Lubricate Blower and Replace Belts

If you have a rooftop HVAC unit, make sure you have an HVAC rooftop equipment service company to come and maintain it before winter. The contractor will lubricate all moving parts including blower bearing which will reduce the friction between them and help minimize damage. They’ll also adjust the blower belt and inspect for replacement when needed. For more involved HVAC repairs.

How Comfortable is Your Team

Most people that share office space find comfort is sometimes challenging. Not everyone is comfortable at the same temperature, Sally likes it 74 degrees and Charlie likes it at 68 degrees. How we help bridge the gap in desired comfort levels is by installing averaging temperature sensors throughout the building. This  technology  really helps improve comfort settings and even helps morale within your team.

As the weather grows colder, make sure you provide your commercial HVAC system with the seasonal maintenance it requires. If you’re looking for heating and commercial air conditioning companies in the Philadelphia area, contact H & H Commercial Services. Our experienced, commercial HVAC contractors will be happy to help.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/preparing-your-commercial-hvac-system-for-the-winter/

Rising Temperatures Call for AC in Schools. How to Deal With It?

This summer has been a hot one! As schools resume classes, kids and teachers are struggling to deal with the lingering heat. Cool fall days are ahead, but there are still a few weeks of sweltering summer temperatures to navigate, first. These heat waves has educators and school administrators across the country considering how they can add commercial air conditioning to their buildings.

Many school HVAC systems are not designed in a way that makes it easy to add central air. In most cases, the best way to add air conditioning to schools is with wall-mounted units. Here are some key points to keep in mind as you explore this option for your school.

What Are Wall-Mounted AC Units?

Wall-mounted air conditioners are individual air handling units that are installed through the walls. These units are designed to cool a single room. Cool air enters the room directly through these units; there is no need for ducts. Each unit is controlled separately via its own thermostat. This way, each teacher can individually control the temperature of their own classroom.

Where Do the Wall-Mounted AC Units Go?

Wall-mounted units are typically positioned high up on the wall, only a few inches from the ceiling. This way, they are out of the way. This high placement also makes for good dispersement of the cool air. It won’t be blown directly on students. Cooling a room from the top down tends to lead to more even temperatures throughout the space.

What About Bigger Spaces?

For larger spaces, such as the school cafeteria or gym, your air conditioner service contractor may recommend a larger commercial air conditioner. Some schools are having a commercial rooftop air conditioner installed to cool their large, central areas, and then having wall-mounted units installed separately in the classrooms. A rooftop AC unit can adequately cool a large gym or conference area, and it won’t take up any unnecessary space in your building. The cooled air can be blown down from the ceiling, which will bring temperatures down quickly.

What Maintenance Do Commercial Air Conditioners Require?

Whether your school chooses to install a rooftop air conditioner, wall-mounted units, or both, it’s important to maintain the equipment to keep it working properly. Sign up for a commercial air conditioner service contract. An HVAC contractor will periodically lubricate all moving parts, check refrigerant levels, change filters, and perform other necessary HVAC maintenance. Annual maintenance contracts are affordable and will save you money on repairs over time.

As temperatures rise, air conditioning in schools will become more and more important. If you’re thinking of having AC installed in your school, search for “commercial HVAC company near me” and get started today. Contact H & H Commercial Services for HVAC work in the Philadelphia area and beyond.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/rising-temperatures-call-for-ac-in-schools-how-to-deal-with-it/

Restaurant HVAC Design: Things to consider

In any restaurant, proper heating and cooling are essential – not just for your guests’ comfort, but also for the safety and comfort of your kitchen staff. Unfortunately, restaurants are not the easiest spaces to fit with HVAC systems. There are several challenges to contend with, including the heat that comes from the kitchen and the need for extra ventilation. Commercial HVAC mechanical contractors with experience in the restaurant industry are familiar with these challenges and have plenty of ways to address them.

Here are some top things you, as a restaurant owner or manager, should consider as you work with an HVAC contractor to design your system.

Split Systems Work Well

In many restaurants, a split system is a good choice for the kitchen and back of house. This type of HVAC system does not have ducts. Instead, you have air handlers that are mounted through the wall. Have a split system installed in the back, and run a central HVAC system through the dining room and public spaces. This way, heat from the kitchen won’t affect the operation of the central HVAC system up front.

Split systems also work well in kitchens because the equipment takes up little space. The air handler can be mounted high up on the wall where it’s out of the way.

Focus on Good Ventilation

You need good vent hoods in your kitchen, and you need to maintain them so they keep working effectively and efficiently. Not only will they exhaust a lot of heat from your stove and fryers, but they’ll also remove particulate matter and grease from the air. This will help keep your other HVAC equipment, like your air handlers, clean and working well. Sign up for a commercial HVAC service contract to save yourself time.

Install a Makeup Air Unit

Vent hoods exhaust a lot of air from your space as they work. To bring air back into your space, you will need a makeup air unit. This is a relatively simple piece of HVAC equipment that pushes clean, filtered air into your building. It can be configured with your heater and air conditioner. This way, the makeup air will be heated or cooled to the needed temperature before it enters your restaurant. A good makeup air unit will keep the kitchen from feeling too “stuffy.”

Consider Changes to the Duct Layout

If you’re renovating an older building, consider searching for a “commercial HVAC company near me” to make adjustments to the duct placement. This is especially important in the dining area. Make sure the vents are evenly spaced, and avoid placing them in areas where cold or hot air will blow directly on guests.

Keep these tips in mind, and work with a commercial HVAC mechanical contractor to make sure your restaurant’s HVAC system is set up properly. Contact H & H Commercial Services if you have any other questions.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/restaurant-hvac-design-things-to-consider/

Summer HVAC Maintenance Tips for Your Commercial Property

Summer is a demanding season for your commercial HVAC system. Your air conditioner and central fan work hard throughout this season to keep your building cool and dehumidified. So how can you best care for and maintain your commercial HVAC system in the summer? Here are some top tips from our commercial heating and cooling repair contractors.

Schedule a Professional Maintenance Appointment

Even if you’re used to doing your own maintenance, it is a good idea to schedule a professional HVAC maintenance appointment at some time during the summer. A commercial HVAC services company can lubricate all moving parts inside your air conditioner and HVAC appliances. They can tighten loose bolts, check your electrical connections, and make sure all of your vents are working properly. This professional maintenance can help prevent the need for repairs as summer goes on.

Clean Around Your HVAC Equipment

Makes sure the area around your HVAC equipment is clear. This is especially important outside. Clear away any leaves or debris that are pushed up against your equipment. Trim back bushes, and pull any weeds. This will help ensure your AC unit gets plenty of airflow, which will keep it running efficiently.

Change Your Air Filters More Often

In the spring and summer, your air filters will last a while. But in the summer when your air conditioner is working extra hard, you’ll want to change your air filters once a month. Fresh, clean filters trap more dirt, which means less dirt accumulates on your equipment. Clean equipment typically lasts longer and uses less energy.

Clear Your Condensate Drains

Commercial air conditioners produce quite a lot of condensation as they pull moisture from your indoor air. All of this condensation is sent down a tube and into a condensate drain. Locate this drain, and make sure it is clear. If you see any gunk in or around the drain, clear it away. If you ever see puddles under your HVAC equipment, that means your condensate drain tube is probably clogged. A commercial air conditioning repair company can fix this problem quite easily.

Keep an Eye on Energy Use

Keep an eye on your energy consumption as summer rolls on. If your energy bills are significantly higher than in previous years, this points to a possible issue with your air conditioner or other HVAC equipment. Have an HVAC contractor come take a look. Making any necessary repairs at this early stage is usually easier than waiting for your system to fail completely.

Follow the tips above to take better care of your commercial HVAC system this summer. Consider further simplifying your routine by signing up for a commercial HVAC maintenance contract with H & H Commercial Services. We’ll inspect, maintain, and repair your commercial HVAC equipment so you don’t have to worry about it.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/summer-hvac-maintenance-tips-for-your-commercial-property/

Steps to Follow for Improving Indoor Air Quality in Summer

Summer often brings with it a decrease in air quality. Outdoor humidity levels rise, which means your indoor humidity is likely to rise, too. Wildfire smoke and air pollutants are also growing concerns in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. You want the air that you, your customers, and your employees breathe to be as clean and healthy as possible. So how do you improve your indoor air quality in the summer months? Work with a commercial HVAC service, and follow these key steps.

Step 1: Change Your Air Filter

In the summer when your HVAC system is working overtime, make sure you change the filter every 1 – 2 months. If smoke from the Canadian wildfires has affected your area, you may need to change your filters even more frequently. A new air filter will do a better job of trapping contaminants so they don’t keep circulating through your space. Consider buying a whole stack of filters at once. This way, you always have one on hand when it’s time for a swap.

Step 2: Depend on Your Dehumidifier

If you do not already have a dehumidifier, this is the perfect time to have one installed. A dehumidifier will remove excess moisture from your indoor air so your space does not feel so sticky and humid. You’ll have an easier time breathing, and you’ll also feel cooler – even if you don’t change the thermostat setting.

If you have a pool in your building, make sure your indoor pool humidity control system is working properly. If your pool area seems overly humid, have a commercial HVAC repair service come look it over. They can maintain your pool room dehumidifier and make any required repairs. If you can keep the humidity in your pool room under better control, your whole building will be less humid.

Step 3: Keep Windows and Doors Closed

When it’s nice outside, you may be tempted to open the windows. But this is one of the worst things you can do for air quality in the summer. You’ll let in humidity and pollutants, forcing your air conditioner to work overtime to cool off the space and clean the air again. Keep the windows closed, and all air that enters your space will first have to pass through your HVAC system’s filter, which will result in cleaner, less humid air.

Try to reduce the amount of time that doors are left open, too. Remind employees to close exterior doors behind themselves. Consider installing self-close hinges if your doors do not already have them.

Follow the steps above, and you’ll breathe easier this summer. If you’re looking for commercial HVAC contractors in the Philadelphia area, get in touch with H & H Commercial Services. We’ll help you improve your indoor air quality during this hot and humid season.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/steps-to-follow-for-improving-indoor-air-quality-in-summer/

Common HVAC Issues in Commercial Buildings and How to Address Them

Commercial HVAC systems are often large and complex. As such, you’ll want to rely on professionals to repair and maintain them. But you do still need to know when something is amiss so you can call your commercial HVAC mechanical service. Keep reading, and you’ll discover some of the most common HVAC issues in commercial facilities – and how to address them.

Dirty Filters

Your HVAC system has a large filter to catch dust and debris and prevent it from continuing to circulate through the air. When the filter becomes too dirty, your system may lose efficiency or even start short-cycling – turning on and off in short succession. Your HVAC contractor should change the filter each time they are you to maintain your system. In some systems, it’s fairly easy to change the filter, and your contractor may show you how to do it yourself.

Strange Noises

If your HVAC system suddenly starts making strange noises, something is amiss. A squealing sound often means that the belt in the fan motor is damaged or worn. A rattling noise may indicate that a bolt or fastener has come loose. A good HVAC contractor can listen to a system run, tell you what is wrong, and then make the required repairs. Luckily, most of these issues, including loose bolts and frayed belts, are relatively easy to fix.

Condensation Buildup

Most newer commercial HVAC systems are condensing units. They produce condensation, which is pumped down a condensate tube and into a drain. If something goes wrong with the drainage system, you may notice water pooling on the ground or rooftop around the HVAC equipment. The drain line may be clogged, or the pump may have broken. These issues are not emergencies, as your system should continue to heat and cool. However, you will want to have your HVAC team make repairs before the water damage gets too serious.

Loss of Responsiveness

What if your HVAC system simply won’t turn on? Some issues that cause a lack of responsiveness are rather minor, such as a short in the thermostat wiring. Others, like a broken ignitor, are a little harder for your HVAC team to fix. The professionals can make an evaluation and tell you whether it’s a better idea to replace or repair the equipment. It will depend on the extent of the damage, whether your system is under warranty, and how old your current equipment is.

When something goes wrong with your HVAC system, it helps to have a reliable team by your side. If your commercial HVAC system is not working properly, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at H&H Commercial Services, Inc. We’re proud to be the commercial HVAC mechanical contractors Philadelphia business owners can depend on.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/common-hvac-issues-in-commercial-buildings-and-how-to-address-them/

How Much Air Conditioning Do You Need For Your Server Room?

Server rooms need to be kept cool in order to protect the sensitive IT equipment they house. If the room becomes too warm, even if only for a few hours, the equipment could fail and important data could be lost. As such, it is highly important for any server room to be properly air-conditioned. Here’s a closer look at what that means.

Temperature Requirements

The air conditioning system you install should be sufficient to keep the server room between 18 and 27 degrees C, or 64 and 80 degrees F. This is the server room temperature range recommended by ASHRAE,  the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers. Your commercial HVAC mechanical contractors will take this into account when recommending air conditioning units.

Humidity Requirements

Air conditioners do more than simply cool air. They also remove humidity from the air. In a server room, it is very important to keep humidity levels between 40 and 60% relative humidity. Too much moisture in the air could lead to the corrosion of certain metal components, and air that is too dry can perpetuate static.

Your commercial HVAC repair and service contractors will generally try to satisfy humidity control requirements with an air conditioner alone, but in some cases, they may also opt to install a dehumidifier. These appliances remove excess moisture from the air and can usually be coordinated with your thermostat for easy control.

Amount of Equipment

Calculating the best-size air conditioner for a server room is a bit more complicated than calculating the best-size air conditioner for the average space. Server equipment gives off a substantial amount of heat as it runs. The air conditioner has to be capable of exhausting this excess heat. The more equipment a server room contains, the more heat will need to be removed. In other words, a very full server room requires a more powerful air conditioner than a nearly empty one.

If you have plans to add additional IT equipment to your server room, tell your HVAC contractor about these plans. They will need to take the added equipment into account when calculating how many BTUs of cooling your AC unit needs to offer.

Server rooms can hold millions of dollars worth of equipment, and proper air conditioning is essential to protect that equipment. The best way to determine what size air conditioner you need is to consult with commercial HVAC contractors Philadelphia residents have come to depend on. A knowledgeable HVAC contractor will look over your server room and precisely calculate your necessary cooling capacity.

If you’re in need of a commercial HVAC company in the Philadelphia area, contact H&H Commercial Services, Inc. We offer comprehensive AC installation, repair, and maintenance services for computer rooms, server rooms, and more.

This blog was originally posted at https://hhcommercialonline.com/how-much-air-conditioning-do-you-need-for-your-server-room/