5 Common Commercial HVAC Problems – With Easy Solutions

As with anything, commercial HVAC systems can develop problems. And this can cause more than just a headache for you. Commercial HVAC systems can impact a building and the building occupants in a multitude of ways – productivity levels, health, safety, energy costs, comfortability, and even happiness. This means you want it running smoothly and efficiently at all times, right? Of course! Unfortunately, as we mentioned before, problems can happen. But, with a problem comes an easy solution!   

Here are 5 common commercial HVAC problems, along with easy solutions to fix them:  

1. Airflow Inconsistencies: The air that comes out of your vents travels through a series of ducts before it reaches each room. Dampers help control this by reducing airflow in one line and allowing more conditioned air to flow to other areas. When these dampers are unbalanced, it causes an inconsistency in airflow through the building. If you’re noticing that some rooms are cooling or heating differently throughout the building, unbalanced dampers could be the culprit. Call your local commercial HVAC service company to have a professional technician look over the system.  
   
2. Strange or Loud Sounds: Strange or loud sounds can be a variety of things. It could be a loose component somewhere in your system, a broken door or vent, or it could be that a moving part needs to be lubricated. In extreme cases an odd sound could be a warning sign for a failing system. If you hear a sound that is beyond the normal for your HVAC system, call your local service company to come and have a look. These things are better looked at sooner rather than later when it could cost you more money.  
   
3. Lack of Regular Maintenance: Without regular maintenance, minor HVAC issues turn into major repair expenses later for your commercial HVAC system. This can quickly result in higher costs, increased downtime, and it will most likely take up a lot of your time trying to fix the issue. A great way to ensure that your commercial HVAC system is receiving the proper preventative maintenance is by going ahead and scheduling out regular maintenance visits for the entire year. Many companies even provide service contracts that ensure your system is properly maintained for the length of the contract.  
   
4. Poor Indoor Air Quality: Filters ensure that the air in your space is clean, fresh, and healthy for building occupants. If those filters get dirty or clogged, this can cause a decrease in indoor air quality. Those dirty afilters can also cause your HVAC system to work harder, raising that energy bill each month. The best way to improve your indoor air quality is to regularly clean and replace your filters. You can also discuss other indoor air quality solutions with your local Hoffman representative. This past year, many of our manufacturers have developed impactful solutions to increase indoor air quality for building occupants.  
   
5. Loss of Efficiency: If you start to notice a large spike in your energy bills, many people instantly blame sudden changes of the weather and temperature. That isn’t always the case. Sometimes your commercial HVAC system is overworking itself simply due to decreased efficiency. This can be caused by lack of maintenance, aging equipment, and even the improper system for your space. Talk with your local commercial HVAC representative to figure out the best way for your space to achieve ultimate energy efficiency. By talking with a professional, you can increase HVAC system efficiency and save money in the future!  
   

Commercial HVAC problems happen, but there is usually an easy solution right under your nose. If we could stress one thing, it would be to act soon. If you think that something is wrong with your system or it’s not working at optimal efficiency, or if you just want to improve your indoor air quality, there’s a solution for you, and it’s better to do it sooner rather than later. If you have any additional questions, please contact your local Hoffman & Hoffman branch.