Commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can experience a variety of problems, from refrigerant leaks to air flow issues. In some cases, these problems can be fixed relatively easily, while others may require the services of a professional HVAC technician. If you’re dealing with commercial HVAC problems, keep reading to learn some of the most common issues and how to fix them.
Refrigerant Leaks
One of the most common problems with a commercial HVAC is a refrigerant leak. If you have a refrigerant leak, you will need to have it fixed by a professional. However, there are a few things you can do to try to minimize the damage until you can get it fixed.
First, you will want to make sure that the area around the leak is clean and dry. If there is any dirt or debris around the leak, it will make it more difficult to fix. You can try to clean the area with a damp cloth, but be careful to avoid refrigerant contact with your skin or eyes.
Once the area is clean, you’ll want to use a sealant to try to stop the leak. You can find a sealant at most hardware stores. Just remember to follow the instructions on the sealant to make sure you’re using it correctly.
Air Flow Problems
Another common problem with these HVAC systems is a lack of air flow. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty filters, blocked ducts, or a malfunctioning fan. Dirty filters can be cleaned or replaced, blocked ducts can be cleared, and a malfunctioning fan can be replaced. A malfunctioning fan and blocked ductwork should be handled by a professional. However, any business owner should be able to replace the filters.
Noise Problems
Excessive noise is another common issue with commercial HVAC units. This can be caused by a malfunctioning fan, a clogged filter, or a blocked duct in most cases. Noise can often be reduced by cleaning or replacing the filter, clearing blocked ducts, or replacing a malfunctioning fan. If cleaning or replacing the filter doesn’t stop the noise, you may need to contact a professional.
Temperature Problems
Many business owners run into issues with inconsistent temperatures. This can be caused by various factors, such as a malfunctioning thermostat or a blocked duct. Temperature problems can often be resolved by cleaning or replacing the thermostat, clearing blocked ductwork, or replacing a malfunctioning fan. Inconsistent temperatures are best resolved with the help of a qualified technician.
Installation Errors
Commercial HVAC systems are often complex and require a high level of expertise for installation services and ongoing maintenance. Despite the best efforts of installers and technicians, errors can occur that lead to problems with the system’s performance.
One of the most common errors that can occur during an installation service is improper sizing of the system. If the system is too small, it will not be able to meet the cooling or heating needs of the building, resulting in uncomfortable conditions and high energy costs. If the system is too large, it will cycle on and off more frequently than necessary, leading to increased wear and tear on the equipment and higher energy costs. The only way to fix this issue is to have a new, properly-sized HVAC unit installed.
Another common installation service error is improper installation of the ductwork. If the ducts are incorrectly installed the system will not be able to distribute air properly, resulting in poor comfort and high energy costs. Incorrect wiring can also be a common source of problems with commercial HVAC systems. Incorrect wiring can lead to short circuits and electrical fires.
Fortunately, most of these common errors can be corrected by a qualified technician. If you’re experiencing problems resulting from installation errors, consider contacting a qualified technician to assess your needs.
Repairing Your Commercial HVAC System
While you can fix several of these issues, most of them require the skilled hand of a trained HVAC technician. If you’re experiencing any of these common problems with your commercial HVAC system, don’t hesitate to call a qualified professional for help.
