In this article, we are covering the most common commercial HVAC problems that could impact your heating and cooling system. Commercial HVAC systems can be complex, as businesses often have unique heating and cooling needs that must be addressed.
While HVAC maintenance helps HVAC systems have an optimal lifespan, as HVAC systems age problems inevitably arise. Malfunctioning HVAC systems often suffer from poor airflow, exhibit strange noises or odors, and more. Often HVAC problems will be accompanied by increased energy bills.
So, let’s dive in. Below are some of the most common HVAC problems, and tips on what you can do about the problems if it’s something that you are facing.
1. Clogged or Dirty Filters
One of the most important routine HVAC maintenance jobs is replacing air filters on a regular basis. The air filters in HVAC systems have a vital role of keeping dust, debris, and other particulates from entering the HVAC system and being circulated in the air. It’s inevitable, even the cleanest of businesses will eventually have dirty filters that require replacement.
If your HVAC system hasn’t been maintained recently, it’s likely that the HVAC system’s air filters are clogged. An HVAC system with clogged air filters must work harder to provide warm or cool air, and won’t operate as efficiently as it should. HVAC systems that operate with clogged air filters generally have a reduced lifespan.
2. Lack of Efficiency
When an HVAC system is experiencing problems, this often translates into increased energy bills. If you are noticing that your energy bills have increased, it’s time to think about calling a professional HVAC technician to service your heater and/or air conditioner.
Homes and businesses who have an inefficient HVAC system often notice that the hot or cool air being distributed throughout the space is not even. Uneven air distribution can signal a variety of problems, such as, air duct leaks and improperly balanced dampers. Inefficient HVAC systems often will be running nearly all the time. Without having a professional HVAC technician look at your HVAC system, it’s hard to say the exact reason why an HVAC system is running inefficiently. Hiring an HVAC company that you trust to inspect your HVAC system could save you a significant amount of money on energy bills if your HVAC system is not running as efficiently as it could be.
3. Noises in the HVAC System
Are you noticing strange noises coming from your HVAC system? It’s a good idea to be paying attention to noises, as these noises are often signals that the HVAC system is having issues. When you hear an odd noise from your HVAC system, it’s best to have a professional HVAC inspection to get to the bottom of the issue. Sometimes loud noises have simple fixes, such as a loose bolt, a fan belt that requires replacement, or a deep clean if debris is caught inside the system. The only way to know for sure what problem the HVAC system is having, is by having an HVAC technician inspect the HVAC system.
4. Unresponsiveness
Another common commercial HVAC problem is an unresponsive system (i.e., when an HVAC system won’t turn on). In most cases, when an HVAC system will not turn on, the thermostat is the culprit. Many modern HVAC systems come with a battery operated programmable thermostat, and as such, if an HVAC system is unresponsive, it’s best to check whether new batteries are needed in the thermostat. We’ve also found that a tripped circuit breaker can cause HVAC systems to stop functioning, which simply requires the breaker be reset so that the HVAC system can restart.
Not a tripped circuit breaker or battery problem? You may need a new thermostat. A professional HVAC company will be able to help you determine how to fix an unresponsive HVAC system.
5. Drain Line Issues
Drain line issues are another common commercial HVAC problem. Drain lines have the important function of transporting moisture away from an HVAC system. It’s not uncommon for drain lines to become clogged with debris. Clogged drain lines often result in water backing up into the HVAC unit’s drain pan, or worse, water overflowing and damaging the HVAC system. This problem can be easily avoided with regular HVAC maintenance.
6. Refrigerant Leaks
In the summer months, a common commercial HVAC problem is refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant is a liquid that an HVAC system uses to produce cool air. Often an HVAC system that is running but isn’t producing cool air needs refrigerant. If you think that your HVAC system may have a refrigerant leak, don’t wait to contact a trusted HVAC company because running an HVAC system without adequate refrigerant can result in additional problems.
How to Avoid Common Commercial HVAC Problems
The best way to avoid expensive commercial HVAC problems is to invest in regular professional HVAC maintenance. Additionally, it’s best to have a professional HVAC technician provide preventative maintenance four times a year, every season. At a minimum, HVAC systems should be inspected in the early spring before the air conditioner is turned on for the summer and early fall before the furnace is turned on.
Before you schedule an HVAC preventative maintenance service, be sure that you are working with a trustworthy professional HVAC company, like Larry Cook Heating and Cooling. At Larry Cook Heating and Cooling, we offer a variety of HVAC maintenance plans for commercial and residential customers. Our HVAC maintenance plans are a great way for our customers to have peace of mind that their HVAC systems are in optimal condition. Contact us today at 316-322-5668 to learn more.
