Answers to Your Commercial HVAC System FAQs
Whether you’re installing your first HVAC system or upgrading or replacing an existing one, you will want to know as much as possible about the equipment and what you can expect from it. The following answers to frequently asked questions about commercial HVAC systems can help you understand some important basics about your investment in heating and cooling.
How Long Should My Commercial HVAC System Last?
A commercial HVAC system is going to require the investment of several thousand dollars, and once you spend that much money, you want the equipment to last as long as possible. Many factors will affect the longevity of a commercial HVAC system, but on average, you can expect this type of equipment to last for 10 to 15 years. By taking care of the system with regular preventive maintenance and timely repairs, it is possible that a commercial furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or boiler could last for 20 years or more.
Are High-Efficiency Systems Worth the Extra Investment?
Heating and cooling a commercial establishment can be expensive. A high-efficiency commercial HVAC system can make a substantial difference in your monthly costs. When compared with regular models, high-efficiency HVAC systems can slash heating and cooling expenses by a substantial percentage. In many cases, system owners have reported that the initial costs of a high-efficiency HVAC system can be recovered through those monthly savings alone by about the halfway point of the system’s expected useful lifespan.
How Often Should the Air Filters be Changed?
Air filters provide two important functions in a commercial environment. One, they help clean your indoor air by trapping and holding particulates such as dust, pollen, fibers, and other material. Second, they contribute to sustaining the airflow your HVAC system needs to function correctly. Dirty, clogged filters will block this airflow and prevent your HVAC equipment from working properly. In the worst cases, dirty filters can even contribute to damage to the system.
In general, air filters should be checked every month and changed when they get dirty. If your commercial activities produce more particulates and airborne contaminants than usual, it will probably be necessary to check and change filters more often, perhaps even weekly.
How Often Should Preventive Maintenance be Performed?
Preventive maintenance is another element of HVAC system care that will contribute substantially to equipment function. Regular maintenance ensures that your commercial HVAC system will work at its best for as long as possible. It sustains the efficiency of your HVAC equipment and preserves those monthly savings you expect from a high-efficiency system. It helps prevent breakdowns and system malfunctions that could lead to costly repairs or even complete system replacements.
Call your trusted local HVAC service provider for a preventive maintenance appointment at least once a year for each type of system. In general, it’s best to have heating systems maintained in the fall and cooling systems in the spring. Since commercial HVAC systems work harder than residential systems, it may be necessary to have maintenance performed more often. Consult with your HVAC pro for advice.
How Much Attention Should be Paid to the Ductwork?
The ductwork in your commercial HVAC system carries heated and cooled air to the inside of your building. Since all of the conditioned air passes through the ductwork, this network of pipes should also be inspected and maintained regularly. Air leaks in the ductwork can account for a substantial loss of energy and money. To prevent these leaks, duct sections must be kept in good repair and should be fitted tightly together. Connections should be sealed with mastic, a specialized sealant for ducts, or with metal tape.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about Plumbing, HVACR, Fire Protection, and Alarm Systems in Mechanical, Commercial, and Residential settings. For more answers to your frequently asked questions about your commercial HVAC system, and to view projects we’ve worked on, visit our website!
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