5 Signs that you Need to Change your Commercial HVAC Equipment
The average HVAC system lifespan is between 10 and 25 years. With little maintenance, your commercial system can last up to 30 years without hiccups. But eventually, all systems need to be replaced for better performance and efficiency. The global HVAC services market reached a value of more than $56 billion in 2021 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% to reach $80.3 billion by 2027. The figure is being driven by the rising investment towards commercial construction projects and the need to boost cost-effectiveness.
Regular on-site inspections, identifying wear and tear and replacing parts right away is necessary to prevent HVAC breakdown. Yet there are times when you need to replace the equipment altogether. This is critical to reduce the impact on health and safety. Below are a few signs that your commercial HVAC needs replacement.
1. Inconsistent Temperature
Inconsistent temperature occurs when the air is not distributed properly throughout the workspace. Employees may be complaining of irregular heat or cold. It is often a result of a damaged thermostat. You can consider upgrading to a smart programmable thermostat which can be scheduled as per user preferences with self-learning capabilities.
A smart thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature depending on office occupancy and provide weather alerts as per the outside climate. You may save 10-12% on heating and 15% on cooling costs with a smart thermostat.
2. Poor Air Quality
The indoor air must be crisp and clean. Occupants of the building may experience flu-like symptoms which means carbon monoxide poisoning. A good way to reduce these problems is to replace HEPA filters, flat-paneled fiberglass filters, reusable air filters and pleated media filters. These keep the indoor air healthy by trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns and catching 99.97% of airborne filters. If you are a pet company, try to change them more often to prevent dander and fur affecting the IAQ.
3. Unusual Noises
Grinding, squealing, hissing, clunking, and rattling might mean loose and broken parts. The bearings or fan belt might be damaged and need a replacement immediately. Not attending to them may compromise the functioning of the HVAC. Get in touch with an expert to inspect the source of the issue and offer an appropriate solution.
4. Strange Smells
Dust burn-offs or wires melting away can cause strange smells. Other common causes are molds, debris and dirt in the ducts. You may also experience awful smells from rodents or insects that build nests in the grilles and registers and release odors. Ducts carry the air to different places and vents provide an opening for the air so it can heat or cool the room. Not taking care may recirculate the pollutants like pollen. Consult a professional to clean them every 5 years which may also cut expenses on utility bills.
5. Excessive Moisture
The optimal humidity level must not exceed 40%-50% in summers. Higher levels than normal can lead to noticeable moisture on walls and windows. You might also notice rust on pipes. The facility might be infested with molds and insects as well. The cooling is canceled, and the office starts feeling warmer. Contact your service partner right away to replace the evaporator coils and ensure a soothing temperature inside.
Preventative maintenance from highly skilled and experienced people can significantly increase the lifespan of a commercial HVAC. Take quick actions when you notice the above symptoms for the best results.
