11 SIGNS YOUR COMMERCIAL HVAC NEEDS REPAIR

As commercial businesses owners, managers and office maintenance people, we know this scenario:

You walk into your building and realize something is amiss. It's a bit hot and uncomfortable, and you realize that you don't hear your HVAC system running. You go and check the thermostat or control center for the building, and it reads a number that is way too high for your liking.

Your roof top unit or other HVAC units are not working, it's go time and you've officially started your day off on the wrong foot.

If your commercial HVAC unit or system isn't working as well as it once did, or worse, isn't running at all, you're most likely going to need to get it repaired or replaced, and fast.

In this article, we'll discuss 11 signs to look out for that will tell you that your unit needs repair or replacement.

Now then, let's get started!

1. Discomfort in Your Building

First and foremost, it's important to remember exactly what your HVAC system is supposed to do. Above all else, your HVAC system exists to keep you, your employees, and your customers comfortable while inside your building.

So if you've gotten more complaints than usual about how hot or cold it is in your building, or you yourself have noticed that it's not as comfortable as it should be, it's probably time to call a professional. 

2. A Spike in your Energy Bills

By putting off repairing or replacing your HVAC system, you can end up spending a ton of money elsewhere. Obviously, that's money that you could be putting towards a new HVAC system altogether, which is why it's wise to maintain your unit frequently and not put off any repairs. 

One area in particular that can really take a hit if your HVAC system isn't up to par in your energy bill. Things like your HVAC system running too often in order to maintain temperature can spike your bill greatly, so if you notice a spike, address it immediately. 

3. Your System Needs Frequent Repairs

Take a look back at the past three to five years and see just how much money you've already sunk into your current HVAC system. If your system is older, there's a good chance you've already paid for at least half of what a new system would cost just to keep your current one running!

That's a trend that's not going away, and will even increase in frequency, as your system continues to age. It's wise to go ahead and replace your unit instead of making your way through a long list of repairs, especially if it's an older system. 

4. Your System has a Freon Leak 

If there's one common issue that can cost you a ton of money, it's a freon leak. Some customers will see that, for a few hundred bucks, they can get their system back up and running, at least for a little while, and just go with that option instead of addressing the issue fully. 

While that's certainly an option, it's important to remember that, like a hole in your tire, that leak isn't going away until you've repaired it. And freon, especially if it's an older kind of freon, is much more expensive than air, so it's wise to replace your system if the leak is severe. 

5. Unusual Loud Noises are Coming From Your System

Every HVAC system makes a little bit of noise. Sure, newer systems are much quieter, but most systems create enough noise that you can at least tell when they're running.

However, if you've noticed that your system is making unusual noises, or is louder than normal, you most likely have an issue. It's wise to call someone out to check it out ASAP to prevent long-term damage.

6. Your System Constantly Runs

During the peak seasons, your HVAC system is obviously going to run a bit more than it does when the weather is mild. But if your unit is constantly running, or struggles to keep up, then you've probably got a major issue.

It's wise to have an expert come out and see what's going on the moment you notice the problem. Failure to do so could lead to high energy bills or further damage to your unit caused by running it too much.

7. Your AC Blows Warm Air 

Nothing is more aggravating than turning on your AC on a hot summer day and feeling warm air blowing out of the vents. This can often happen for a few moments right when the unit comes on, but if it continues, you've got something going on that needs to be addressed.

8. You’ve Noticed Air Flow Issues

Airflow issues can mean a few different things. For instance, you may notice that air blows harder in some rooms than others. Or, you may notice that air doesn't blow hard at all, which can make it next to impossible to properly heat or cool a room.

As is the case for all of the issues on this list, it's important to contact a professional ASAP so you can prevent any further damage, not only to your wallet but to your unit, too.

9. There’s a Bad Odor When the System is Running

Sometimes, because we're so busy, we may not notice some of the issues that are found on this list. But if there's one issue you're for sure going to notice the moment it starts, it's a bad odor that exists when the unit is running.

Once again, a multitude of things can be causing this issue. It's a good idea to turn the system off and contact your HVAC company to take a look at the issue. 

10. You’ve Noticed Mold Forming Around the Unit

The health issues that can result from contact with mold are very serious, which is why if you come in contact with that problem, you should replace your entire HVAC system immediately.

The moment you've noticed what you believe to be mold, or any other kind of substance growing or forming around the unit, you need to address it ASAP.

11. Your System is More than 10 Years Old

HVAC systems aren't going to last forever. Once you get around the 10-year mark, it's wise to start planning for a replacement. Things like routine maintenance can help extend your unit's life and help you stay on top of any problems that may arise.

A good rule of thumb? Start talking about replacement once your unit hits the 10-year mark. You're going to want to be somewhat preventive here, as we can almost guarantee that your unit will go out for good on the hottest or coldest day of the year.

If Your HVAC Needs Repair or Replacement, Get Help Today!

Well, there you have it! Those are 11 signs your HVAC needs repair or replacement!

Remember, it's wise to call your HVAC company the moment you notice an issue. The longer your wait, the more damage that could be done to your unit.

Also, it's important to stick with a routine maintenance program. That will help you prolong your unit's life and possibly prevent some issues from ever occurring at all.

Having issues with your HVAC system? Contact us today, we'll be glad to assist you!