With proper maintenance, your commercial HVAC system maintains its energy efficiency and keeps temperatures consistent, boosting comfort levels and productivity. Even with proper maintenance, issues may arise that can lead to higher energy and repair bills. Here are some commercial HVAC issues that you shouldn’t ignore at your business in Fernandina, FL:

Clogged Filters

Clogged filters are only one cause for higher energy use. When your commercial HVAC system has clogged air filters, it has to work harder to provide you with the same level of comfort. When an HVAC system has to work harder, it uses more energy and raises your bills.

Clogged filters also put a strain on your system, resulting in frequent repairs and decreasing the lifespan of your HVAC unit. For proper HVAC health, you need to change your filters regularly — about every 30 to 60 days.

HVAC Capacity

When your commercial building has an HVAC system that doesn’t fit its needs, it can affect your energy bills. If your system is too small to function well, it won’t heat or cool your space properly, which means you have to use more energy to keep the environment comfortable. If the system is too big, comfort decreases because it won’t properly dehumidify the air, and there’s more frequent wear and tear.

Insufficient Refrigerant

Refrigerant is an important component of your HVAC system, whether you’re using an air conditioner or a heater. If there isn’t enough refrigerant, your HVAC system won’t work properly.

If there’s a leak, you’ll experience problems such as reduced airflow or inefficient heating. Not only does a refrigerant leak impact how your HVAC system works, but it also causes a health and safety issue inside the building.

Odd Noises

Another issue to pay attention to if you wish to avoid higher energy bills and repair costs is noise. While some noises are normal while the HVAC system operates, others mean that it’s time to bring in a professional. This could mean that a component needs tightening, there’s a broken fan or some of the ducts have come loose or need cleaning.

If you ignore the noises for too long, not only do you risk the need for extensive repairs. You also risk needing to replace the HVAC system before the end of its lifespan.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor air quality impacts the health and well-being of everyone inside the commercial space. Factors that impact indoor air quality include clogged air filters and refrigerant leaks. Not only do dirty air filters affect humidity levels, but they also circulate dust, pollen and other contaminants.

Refrigerants are tasteless and odorless and can lead to refrigerant poisoning. Signs of a refrigerant leak include difficulty breathing, skin irritation, eye irritation and headaches.

Thermostat Problems

When issues with heating and cooling arise, one of the last things you suspect is a problem with the thermostat. As the thermostat controls when the HVAC system activates, it only makes sense to have a professional perform maintenance on your thermostat as well. As HVAC thermostats have an average lifespan of about 10 years, you might want to consider an upgrade instead.

Wiring Issues

If you’re having issues with your commercial HVAC system, another area to look at is the wiring. If there’s a problem with the wiring, you’ll have strange fluctuations in cooling and heating.

Some wiring problems that a professional might discover include fraying, disconnection, moisture and corrosion. Not only do these factors cause your system to work harder due to hindered electrical connections, but they also increase the risk of fires.

Your HVAC system is essential to your day-to-day operations and success, which means you need it running at peak efficiency no matter the time of day. Contact Ocean State Air Conditioning & Heating for your commercial HVAC needs. Our reliable, NATE-certified service technicians are here to help.

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