Your commercial HVAC system is a huge part of what makes your building occupants comfortable and productive. The system also plays a large role in utility bills and can even have an impact on safety and health. Mechanical systems are built to last a long time but even the best systems will eventually need to be repaired or replaced.
Unusual Noises? Here’s What They Might Be Telling You
If you start hearing odd noises coming from your HVAC system, it’s usually a sign something’s not quite right. Pay attention to these noises to prevent further damage and costly repairs:
- Screeching and Squealing: Your HVAC system contains multiple moving parts, such as motor bearings and belts. You may hear squealing and screeching when these parts start wearing out. Worn-out parts reduce efficiency and may cause your system to run without stopping.
- Banging Noises: When one of your HVAC components becomes loose, it will start hitting against the moving parts. Consequently, you and your employees may hear loud banging or metal-on-metal noises. Consider shutting down your system to prevent further damage and expensive repairs.
- Whistling Noises: Your ductwork and vents help to distribute cool and heated air into your commercial facility. If you place machines or office furniture too close to the vents, it will restrict airflow. The same can be said for excess dirt and debris. Consequently, you may hear whistling noises as air struggles to enter your building. Consider moving any objects away from the vents.
- Hissing and Gurgling Sounds: If your HVAC system uses an R-410a refrigerant, the fluid could leak, causing other unusual sounds. Refrigerant helps to transfer heat. A leakage causes its levels to drop, making it difficult for your HVAC system to move heat efficiently. The system may start running continuously, increasing wear and tear and your monthly energy bills. Allow a trusted HVAC company to repair the leaks, as this particular fluid could harm you or your co-workers if anyone comes in contact with it.
Taking notice of these sounds early can save you from bigger problems down the road, so don’t ignore them!
Poor Airflow or Inconsistent Temperature
If your HVAC system has weak airflow, it will impede proper indoor air quality. This can lead to an increase in dust, allergens and pollutants and may cause respiratory issues, including allergy attacks and skin irritation. For weak airflow, the temperature will not remain balanced. You will notice uneven temperatures in different areas of your commercial building and even the development of mold.
With the onset of poor airflow, your HVAC system will have to work harder. It will cause system stress and increase energy consumption. This can lead to overheating your system, operating failure and potentially reducing the life cycle of your equipment.
As soon as you recognize temperature changes throughout your facility or rising humidity levels, contact a licensed commercial contractor to evaluate the problem and provide remedial repairs.
Increased Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your utility bill could mean your HVAC system isn’t working as efficiently as it should be. You’ll want to have your system checked for inefficiencies. If the bills are consistently high, ask your service technician for recommendations on equipment replacements or modifications that could make your system more efficient.
Potential Causes of Increased Bills
Increased energy costs are generally a sure sign that your mechanical system needs to be inspected. There are a number of components that could cause this, including dirty air filters, leaking ducts and even refrigerant levels. The mechanical contractor will inspect your HVAC system and identify corrective measures to get everything operating efficiently.
Frequent Cycling on and Off
If your HVAC system is short cycling, that is usually a sign of a deeper issue. Some of the problems to look for include:
- Dirty Air Filter: A dirty air filter means your air conditioner will have limited airflow. Hot air builds up inside the system, while cool air can’t get in. This causes the system to overheat, which in turn causes it to cycle off. You need to regularly clean or change your air filter in order to prevent this from happening.
- Evaporator Coils Are Frozen: Frozen evaporator coils are a common cause of short cycling. Sometimes, air conditioners freeze up when they’re running while it’s too cold outside, usually at night. In other cases, freezing may be caused by a dirty filter or a mechanical problem. Shut your system down, allow it to thaw completely, then run it again. If the coils freeze again, you need to give an HVAC contractor a call.
- Wiring and Electrical Problems: There are several electrical issues, such as loose or corroded electrical connections, that can cause short cycling as your air conditioner or heat pump temporarily loses power. You need professional help in order to safely repair any electrical problems, so it’s best to call a licensed mechanical contractor for service.
- Oversized Systems: If your air conditioner or heat pump is too large for your facility, it’s likely to overshoot the target temperature, cycle off, and then cycle back on when your building warms back up. The only solution is to replace your air conditioner with a properly sized system.
Unpleasant Odors Coming from the Vents
When excess moisture accumulates in the building’s air ducts, it can result in a musty odor. This could be the result of high humidity levels within your HVAC system or a drainage leak. It can also cause poor indoor air quality to be distributed throughout your facility. A mechanical contractor can evaluate your HVAC mechanical system components, confirm the cause and repair/clean contaminated areas.
Signs of Humidity Issues in the Building
Excessive moisture on the windows and walls is a sure sign that something is wrong with your commercial HVAC system. Humidity is a huge factor in keeping your facility comfortable, but it can also cause mold, increased insects, and damage to equipment and even the building itself. If you notice irregular condensation or higher humidity levels than normal, call your service partner right away.
How HVAC Systems Control Humidity
HVAC systems are crucial in maintaining indoor comfort by regulating air temperature effectively. This process involves removing heat from the environment, which also impacts moisture levels. Air conditioners play a key role here.
The evaporator coil inside an air conditioner cools the indoor air. As it does this, it also removes moisture, helping to lower humidity levels. Effective humidity control depends on the design and proper sizing of your HVAC system. A well-designed system can maintain comfortable humidity levels year-round. The role of air conditioning systems is vital in dehumidification processes. They extract excess moisture as they cool the air, preventing issues related to high humidity discussed earlier.
The addition of Smart thermostats is a great solution for automatically managing indoor humidity levels. This means your HVAC system doesn’t work harder than it needs to, and you conserve energy and save money as well. These devices learn your schedule, and they lower or raise temperatures when you’re not around. Less energy is used, reducing costs significantly.
Thermostat Inaccuracy
If your thermostat is not working properly, it can also cause problems with your HVAC system’s performance. Here are some common thermostat issues to watch out for:
- The Thermostat Has No Power: An unresponsive display is a sure sign of thermostat failure.
- The AC or Furnace Won’t Turn On: The thermostat is the central control of your HVAC system, and malfunctioning can prevent the AC and furnace from turning on.
- The Heater or AC Won’t Turn Off: The thermostat monitors when the desired temperature is reached and signals the AC or furnace to shut down. If the system keeps running even after the room is cool or warm enough, the thermostat might need recalibration.
- The Thermostat Reading Doesn’t Match the Room Temperature: Temperature sensors signal the thermostat to turn on the HVAC system. Damaged or worn-out sensors can result in a lower or higher temperature reading than the actual room temperature.
- The Thermostat Doesn’t Respond: When you adjust the temperature setting on your thermostat, it should respond almost immediately. If your home’s thermostat is not working, it might be due to dead batteries, a circuit breaker short or bad wiring.
- The HVAC System Is Short Cycling: Short cycling occurs when your HVAC turns off before completing a full cycle of heating or cooling. A short-cycling HVAC will almost never reach your desired temperature.
- The Thermostat Forgets Programmed Settings: A programmable thermostat is designed to remember your preferences and schedule. It shouldn’t “forget” your settings until you decide to change them. So, if the thermostat can’t seem to stick to your schedule, it might be unreliable and require a replacement.
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, it might be a good idea to have an HVAC professional take a look at your thermostat and system to make sure everything’s running smoothly.
Visible Water Leaks Around the System
HVAC water leaks are another serious issue that can cause damage and should be resolved immediately. Some of the components to watch out for include:
- Clogged condensate drain line: This is one of the most common causes of air conditioner water leakage. Over time, this line can become clogged with algae, dirt, dust, and debris.
- Damaged condensates drain pan: You could have a rusted or damaged drain pan if your air conditioning system is older. AC units between 12 and 15 years old may need a new pan
- Dirty air filter: You should change the air filter for your air conditioner every 30 days? A dirty air filter restricts the airflow over the evaporator coil, leading to condensation and water leakage.
- Low refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels cause the evaporator coil to become too cold, leading to frozen coils and a wet mess when it thaws.
- Broken condensate pump: Another potential cause of a leaking AC could be a broken condensate pump. If the unit is installed in the basement, the pump should be pumping water outside.
- Improper AC installation: A poorly installed air conditioner or improperly configured condensate drain line results in drainage problems and water leakage. Hiring a qualified professional to install and maintain your system can help prevent this issue.
How an Old HVAC System Can Impact Your Building
An HVAC system is one of the most critical components of a commercial building, ensuring that employees and customers remain comfortable year-round. However, even with proper maintenance, HVAC systems eventually wear out and become inefficient.
Recognizing the signs that your commercial HVAC system needs an upgrade can help prevent costly breakdowns and improve overall energy efficiency.
- Rising energy bills: When you start seeing increased energy costs, your HVAC system may be working harder than necessary due to aging and clogged components or outdated technology.
- Frequent repairs: If you notice increased service and maintenance bills, it may be time to replace your HVAC system. Frequent breakdowns increase maintenance costs and lead to inconsistent temperatures and system failure.
- Uneven Heating and Cooling: Uneven temperature distribution is a common sign that your HVAC system is struggling to perform. Upgrading to a more efficient system might be your best option.
- Unusual noises and odors: Lound banging, rattling. or hissing noises often indicate component system failure. Mold growth, electrical breakdowns, and overheating are also indications your system is reaching the end of its useful life.
- Poor indoor air quality: Aging HVAC systems can accumulate dust and mold, negatively impacting indoor air quality. New systems include advanced air filtration technologies to improve air quality and employee health.
Waiting too long to replace an outdated HVAC system can lead to escalating operating costs, inefficient energy use, and decreased indoor air quality. If your system is over 15 years old and is showing any of these symptoms, it may be time to contact a mechanical contractor to discuss your options.
Why Regular HVAC Maintenance Is Necessary
The HVAC system in commercial facilities consumes a big part of your businesses annual operating budget. Most systems will provide 15-20 years of consistent heating, cooling, and humidity control before major repairs can be expected. The single best decision you can make to extend the life of your HVAC system is to find a mechanical contractor who can provide a comprehensive service and maintenance program for your equipment.
What to Expect During HVAC Maintenance
As part of a service and maintenance routine for commercial HVAC systems, the following work can be expected:
- Turn the unit on to listen for unusual noises.
- Inspect and test the wiring, connections, and controls associated with your unit.
- Inspect and clean a variety of parts, including the motor, blower, and housing.
- Inspect and test your thermostat for proper temperature readings and operation.
- Monitor that your air conditioner has the proper electrical load.
- Check and clean drain pans, drain lines, and evaporator coils.
- Take the temperature of the air coming through your ducts.
- Check your ducts for any leaks.
- Ensure that the system is operating according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines.
- Check the refrigerant levels in your system and make adjustments as needed.
- Check the compressor unit for signs of damage or normal wear and tear.
- Inspect wiring and connections for damage.
- Clean the condenser coils and housing.
- Clean the drain lines.
- Remove debris from around the unit.
Get Your HVAC System Checked Today
For over 50 years, Unitemp has provided new and retrofit commercial HVAC installations, new technology innovations for improved HVAC analytics and efficiencies, and annual service and maintenance programs to extend the life of your equipment. Call us for a free consultation today at 877.704.4822