Beware of These 6 Common Commercial HVAC Problems

Commercial HVAC systems are a must for any business in Fairbury, Illinois. Winters can be bitterly cold and summers are often hot and humid. To keep your employees and customers comfortable you need a well-functioning HVAC system. Preventative HVAC maintenance is the best way to ensure the system remains efficient. To avoid unexpected break downs, keep a lookout for these six problems that commonly occur with commercial HVAC systems.

Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters are a common problem in both residential and commercial HVAC systems. Yet, it’s a problem that’s easily avoided by regularly checking air filters and replacing them when needed. One symptom of a dirty air filter is reduced airflow. Too little cool or warm air results in an uncomfortable environment for staff and customers. It’s a minor problem but, if left unattended, can lead to bigger problems such as frozen evaporator coils.

Clogged Drain Line

If you notice water pooling near your air conditioner unit, it’s a sign that condensation is not being removed from the system. This usually means the condensate drain line is clogged. When this part of your air conditioning system works properly, condensation will flow through the drain line and exit outside the building. When the line is clogged with dirt or algae, water cannot drain. Instead, it accumulates in the drain pan and overflows, leading to leaks and puddles. The best way to avoid this problem is to clean the drain line at regular intervals.

Uneven Airflow

Uneven airflow will result in inconsistent temperatures throughout a building. This is the reason one area of an office is at an ideal temperature and another area is too hot or too cold. If staff in one area are complaining of discomfort while others are not, there’s a problem with the HVAC system. The most common reasons for uneven airflow are leaks in sections of the ductwork or unbalanced dampers. It’s best to get this fixed as soon as possible. An uncomfortable work environment will lead to unhappy and less productive staff.

Poor Air Quality

Poor air quality can cause staff to become ill frequently and result in more absenteeism. Dirty air filters, air vents, and ductwork all affect the quality of air flowing through the building. Another common factor that contributes to poor air quality is stagnant water in the condensate pan that can give rise to biologic growth and cause bad odors. To avoid sick building syndrome, make sure you schedule regular HVAC maintenance. It’s also a good idea to ask your HVAC contractor to evaluate your building’s air quality and recommend ways to improve the air quality.

Incorrectly Sized HVAC Unit

Many business owners are unaware of the fact that their commercial HVAC unit is incorrectly sized. If you’re installing a new HVAC system, be wary of using an unlicensed HVAC contractor who may install a wrongly sized unit that will result in an inefficient system. An HVAC system that is too big or too small will have to work harder to heat or cool the building. This will cause frequent cycling, resulting in an increase in energy usage and a higher electric bill. It’s important to use a reputable HVAC contractor who will conduct a load calculation to determine the correct size of HVAC equipment needed for a building.

Loud Noises

Modern HVAC systems are quieter than ever before. If you start to notice that the air conditioner or heating system is louder than usual or is making strange sounds, have it checked immediately. Different types of noises point to different problems. Your HVAC technician will be able to locate the source of the noise quickly. Depending on the type of business you run, a noisy HVAC system can be disruptive. In a manufacturing plant it may not be bothersome, but if you run a hotel or restaurant the noise won’t be welcomed by guests and clients.

If problems in your heating and cooling system persist despite regular maintenance and repairs, then it may be time to replace your commercial HVAC system. Call Popejoy Plumbing, Heating, Electric, and Geothermal at (815) 692-4471 to discuss your business’ HVAC needs.

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