14 February Commercial Maintenance Tips: How to Care for Your Commercial HVAC System February 14, 2024 By Melisa Rana Property Maintenance, Property Management commercial HVAC, exterior maintenance, hotel, interior maintenance, office space, retail space 0 COMMERCIAL MAINTENANCE: HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR COMMERICAL HVAC SYSTEM February 14, 2024 | Property Maintenance, Property Management | commercial HVAC, exterior maintenance, interior maintenance, office space, retail space, hotel Maintaining a commercial property involves overseeing various complex systems, but none are perhaps as crucial for occupant comfort and health as a well-functioning HVAC system. For property managers or owners unfamiliar with the intricacies of commercial HVAC, this guide provides essential information and helpful tips. Understanding Commercial vs. Residential HVAC Homeowners accustomed to their residential HVAC unit might underestimate the power needed to cool a commercial space. While several factors differentiate residential and commercial units, size is the most striking. Due to larger areas, commercial properties often require units up to ten times heavier than residential ones. These units use more powerful components and often work in tandem to handle the demands of large buildings. Unlike residential systems, which often utilize "packaged" all-in-one units for both heating and cooling, commercial systems typically divide these functions among various units. These units, usually located on rooftops for noise reduction and space optimization, generally fall into three categories: Single-split systems: Ideal for smaller spaces needing individual temperature control (e.g., hotels, offices). These are cost-effective and minimize disruption during maintenance, but require dedicated indoor and outdoor units for each zone. Multi-split systems: Similar to single-split but with multiple indoor units linked to a single outdoor unit. Suitable for larger spaces with efficient outdoor space usage, but require complex ductwork, leading to higher installation costs. VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems: Similar to multi-split systems but known for exceptional energy efficiency and power. While more expensive, VRF systems are predicted to gain popularity alongside other eco-friendly solutions. Common Issues and Prevention Commercial HVAC systems, regardless of the type, are generally larger and more powerful than their residential counterparts. Here are some common issues and their causes to facilitate early detection: Dirty filters: A major concern for both residential and commercial systems, dirty filters are especially problematic in commercial settings due to the higher workload. Regular maintenance should include monthly filter changes to ensure efficient operation. Signs of dirty filters include overheating, increased energy costs, and frequent system failures, ultimately reducing lifespan. Leaking refrigerant: This issue can cause the HVAC to run continuously without effectively cooling the building. Signs include frequent system cycling (starting and stopping) and unexplained oily substances near the unit. Address refrigerant leaks promptly to prevent further complications. Unusual noises: Various noises can indicate different problems. Rattling or shaking might suggest loose ductwork or broken components, while hissing could be a sign of a leak. Familiarize yourself with the normal sounds of your HVAC system to identify issues quickly and address them promptly. By understanding the unique needs of commercial HVAC systems and implementing preventive measures, property managers can ensure optimal comfort, efficient operation, and extended lifespan for their essential HVAC equipment. NPI’s commercial inspectors can provide insights on the state of all of a property’s key systems. Contact your local NPI team to learn more Comments are closed.