6 Common Commercial HVAC Issues

In offices and other commercial buildings, HVAC systems play an unseen yet significant role. They are responsible for ensuring the temperature remains comfortable and consistent, a factor that can influence productivity and leave a lasting impression on both employees and customers.

When the HVAC system is not functioning properly it’s not only uncomfortable but can become a safety issue. Extreme temperatures can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or repetitive strain injuries.

As you work to maintain your commercial building, the following issues can impact the performance of your HVAC system.

No or Insufficient Maintenance

Maintenance is the first step to ensuring an optimal HVAC system performance. Ideally, whoever oversees the HVAC system should be taking a routine preventative approach. This involves replacing old filters, identifying HVAC repairs before they worsen and scheduling regular maintenance to fix issues.

Filter Issues

Commercial HVAC systems experience the same issues as residential ones: Specifically, filters become clogged or dirty, which requires the system to work harder. In turn, energy costs increase and more strain is placed on the system.

Ignoring the issue can also affect a building’s indoor air quality, increasing the percentage of dust, pollutants and allergens circulating. For certain employees, this may create an uncomfortable environment that negatively impacts their health. As part of your maintenance plan, check the filters monthly for cleaning or replacement.

The System Doesn’t Work Efficiently

Ideally, offices and common areas in a commercial building maintain a comfortable temperature. However, multiple factors can impact how well the system cools or heats a space:

• Refrigerant Issues: This liquid helps to remove heat and generate cool air. An absence of refrigerant, potentially due to a leak, can interrupt this process and place greater pressure on the compressor. This occurrence increases the likelihood your commercial HVAC system will break down. In the meantime, certain areas of your building feel hot or humid even when the temperature is turned down.
• Evaporator Coils: Frost can accumulate on the evaporator coil, disrupting how well the system cools your facility. As part of preventative maintenance, make sure to have the coils defrosted and cleaned routinely.
• Electrical Issues: An issue more prominent in older buildings, the HVAC system and other appliances may be tripping the circuit breaker. As a result, the system no longer works, resulting in stagnant air without heating or cooling for extended periods of time.
• Ductwork: If certain rooms feel extremely cool and others hot, air might be escaping through the ductwork from a crack or leak. This factor increases energy costs and tends to create an unpleasant environment for workers and customers.

Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality stems from multiple issues allowing irritating or hazardous substances to accumulate in work and common areas.

Poor air quality can be related to filter that no longer sufficiently remove pollen, dust and debris. More seriously, factors like overheated parts, debris reaching the heat exchanger, stagnant water or a gas leak can cause potentially dangerous fumes to circulate through a facility and increase worker exposure.

Strange Noises

HVAC systems that need repairs may create unusual, distracting noises. These sounds can be due to:

These noises can range from rattling, clanking or audible popping to a consistent yet loud hum.

Thermostat Placement

Thermostat placement is crucial. If it’s too close a light source, window or copier, the system cannot accurately detect a room’s temperature and releases too much cold air. In this scenario, employees may find themselves bringing extra layers to work. In the opposite situation, a thermostat that senses a room is too cold creates an uncomfortably hot environment for workers and customers.

Beyond temperature, commercial HVAC system performance boils down to the thermostat receiving enough power and working properly. If everything else in the facility looks good, replacing this part can improve how well the system operates.
 
Is your building experiencing HVAC issues? The professionals at MJ Fahy & Sons can assess and repair your commercial HVAC system. To learn more or request service, contact us today.