And Get Back to Business-as-Usual!
Whether you’re a restaurant, a retail store, or a manufacturing facility, when your commercial HVAC system loses its cool, your business grinds to a halt—especially when summer temperatures push the thermometer into triple-digit territory.
A reliable HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system isn’t just a convenience. Today, it’s a necessity for busy businesses. When a faulty unit threatens your commercial comfort, these troubleshooting tips might be just the advice you need to get back to business-as-usual—without breaking a sweat.
Commercial HVAC Issue #1: Uneven Cooling
It seems like every building has one: That single room or office that always seems to be 5° colder or hotter than the rest of the building. If you’re lucky, it’s a room that’s rarely used. But if you’re like most of our corporate customers, it’s the office no employee wants to work from!
Uneven cooling is a common problem that occurs when one area of a commercial space receives a lower airflow than the rest of the building. To make that single area comfortable often requires overheating or overcooling your other spaces, driving your energy bills up in the process.
To compensate for uneven cooling, try these tips:
- Check your air vents. Are any air vents in the room closed or blocked by furniture? Make sure all cabinets, bookcases, curtains, and other objects are at least a few feet away from each vent.
- Clean or replace your air filters. Clogged or dirty filters can seriously restrict the airflow to rooms at the end of your commercial HVAC system’s run. Regularly clean or replace filters to improve your building’s air circulation.
Balance the airflow: If your ductwork uses dampers to control your airflow, try adjusting these plates to better balance the air delivery.
Commercial HVAC Issue #2: Strange Noises
Notice an unusual rattling, banging, grinding, or whooshing coming from your commercial HVAC system? If it sounds like a mini-marching band has moved into your unit, it may be time for a bit of routine maintenance.
Try:
- Checking for loose parts: If you notice a rattle or banging sound, inspect your unit for loose screws, bolts, and other components.
- Cleaning your unit: Debris like leaves, sticks, and small rocks can accumulate inside your unit throughout the summer. At least once a year, we recommend brushing the debris away from your unit and checking the fan for obstructions.
- Lubricating all moving parts: If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your HVAC unit, it may be time to oil your system’s moving parts. This is best left to your HVAC professional, as different HVAC parts may require different types of lubrication.
Commercial HVAC Issue #3: Poor Airflow
Weak airflow throughout your building isn’t just uncomfortable—it can impact the humidity and air quality in your business. And while some airflow issues can be solved with a bit of simple troubleshooting, this is one malfunction that likely needs a professional’s expertise.
But before you call our team of save-the-day heroes, try these tips:
- Check your air filters: Clogged air filters don’t just create hot and cold pockets around your business. If left unchecked, they can slowly restrict your entire building’s airflow—and put considerable strain on your commercial HVAC system.
- Watch your blower fan: If you notice your blower fan spinning slowly or not at all, it may be time for a repair or replacement.
Have your ductwork inspected: Occasionally, ductwork can become clogged or completely disconnected from a portion of your building. If you notice little-to-no airflow when your HVAC system is running, have an HVAC professional inspect your ducts and repair any leaks or disconnections
When in doubt, deploy your dedicated team of Refrigeration Heroes
Most of the troubleshooting tips we shared above are straightforward and DIY-friendly. But why risk your commercial HVAC system’s health? When you call Refrigeration Heroes, we’ll send an exceptionally trained and highly knowledgeable HVAC pro straight over. Even on nights, weekends, and holidays. To request your own everyday hero, or learn more about our annual preventative maintenance program, [visit our website] or call (864) 834-4078 in South Carolina or (828) 688-0323 in North Carolina.
