The Ins and Outs of HVAC System Best Practices
Your HVAC system is a major investment. It heats and cools your building, keeps your staff comfortable, and helps keep inventory in usable condition. Your HVAC system also makes up the majority of your building’s energy consumption. Because it’s such a major part of your workplace, it needs to be designed for your building and the facilities within it. It also should receive proper maintenance, as well as HVAC system repairs when needed.
To make sure your commercial HVAC system is properly installed and maintained, you should understand commercial HVAC best practices. There are techniques, methods, and procedures that have been shown to produce the best results. For HVAC systems, best practices involve improving energy efficiency, reducing energy costs, and making sure the system fits the building.
HVAC Best Practices
Install a Correctly Sized System
Choosing HVAC equipment that is properly sized for your building and facilities is extremely important. If the system is too large or small, it will cause problems. If your system is too small, it will not heat or cool your building properly and it will run constantly wasting energy. However, installing a system that’s too big will not solve these problems. If the system is too big, it will raise your energy bills with frequent start/stops, and it will ultimately have trouble with its startup process. This will lead to extra wear and tear and expensive repairs that will shorten the system’s lifespan.
Doing the research and the calculations to find a correctly sized system will provide you with cost savings and energy efficiency in the long run.
Pay Attention to the System’s Energy Efficiency Rating
When you select an HVAC system for your building, pay attention to its SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The SEER rating measures a system’s energy efficiency over a typical cooling system. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the HVAC system.
Reduce the System’s Load
Your system’s load capacity is the amount of heating and cooling energy it uses during operation. To reduce the system’s heating and cooling loads, seal and insulate your building’s doors and windows, and install energy efficient window coverings or window films. These will help reduce the amount of energy your HVAC unit or system needs to run.
Perform Preventive Maintenance
Routine maintenance saves a lot of money in repairs over time. It also provides your building with better, healthier air quality. Preventive maintenance includes small tasks, such as changing the air filters, and semiannual inspections performed by a professional HVAC technician. When a technician inspects your HVAC system, they can locate and fix small problems before they grow into larger ones. These maintenance inspections and techniques will help prolong your system’s lifespan and prevent it from suffering major breakdowns and system failures.
Use Automated Controls
Automated controls adjust your system’s air output based on the conditions in the zones your system and your thermostat supply with heating or air conditioning. These controls include programmable thermostats, blower controls, and variable-speed fan controls. When your HVAC system uses automated controls, its daily energy costs are reduced because the controls base the system’s output on factors including room temperature and occupancy.
Consider Natural HVAC Solutions
If you’re worried about your carbon footprint and other environmental concerns, you could consider more natural HVAC solutions. For instance, if your building is in a moderate climate, you could install a heat pump, which operates by moving heat from one area and distributes it to another.
Air-source, water-source, and ground-source heat pumps pull heat from or distribute it into the air, water, or ground. These heat pumps draw the heat from natural resources instead of generating hot or cool air with gas or electric power. You can also use wind-driven ventilation to improve the building’s airflow and air distribution. Using environmentally conscious commercial HVAC design solutions will help your building and your system become more energy efficient and eco-friendly.
Distinguish Between HVAC System Replacement and Repairs
Waiting until the very end of your system’s life cycle to replace it can raise your energy costs as you wait for your system to die. Instead, consider using this rule of thumb to determine when to replace your HVAC system: When the repairs cost more than 30% of a new system, it’s time to consider a replacement. This guideline can help you determine which repairs are worth the money and when you should begin shopping for a new system.
An HVAC Contractor You Can Trust
At Services Unlimited, we will take the time to consider how our services can best meet your system’s, building’s, and business’s needs. We do our best to employ best practices to make sure your HVAC system runs well for a long time. If you have any questions about our services or if you’d like a consultation, contact us today.
7 Surefire Ways to Get Your HVAC Summer-Ready
Summer is creeping around the corner, so it’s time to start treating your commercial air conditioning system with some tender love and care.
Together, heating, cooling, and ventilation account for the largest energy expense for most Americans, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This is especially true during the summer, when we crank up the air conditioning to cope with the weather outside. Pretty soon, the mild spring climate will vanish, paving the way for more expensive utility bills. Your AC system doesn’t have to be a cash vacuum, though. When your system is running efficiently, you’ll be able to cut your energy spending dramatically.
The Ultimate Guide to HVAC Preventative Maintenance
An HVAC system is built with lots of moving parts, and many of these parts have a short lifespan. A little bit of regular maintenance can go a long way. When tuning up your AC unit for the summer, follow these seven cooling tips:
Replace or Clean All Air Filters
The first step is to inspect each unit’s air filters. Most HVAC systems use disposable filters, so make sure you’re switching them out periodically throughout the year. For best results, it’s recommended that you replace your filters at least once a month. Many times, these filters can be reused, so be sure to clean off any pet dander, dirt, and debris that accumulates.
Keep the Outdoor Environment Clean
When it comes to HVAC maintenance, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Go outside and examine the HVAC system. If you start to notice a collection of leaves, branches, and other items piled up around the unit, you’ll need to do a thorough cleanup. Don’t wait until spring; this form of maintenance should be conducted throughout the year. You also may want to cover your cooling system with a tarp when it isn’t in use.
Install Programmable Thermostats
You can set a programmable thermostat to cool or heat your space only when it’s needed. These temperature gauge systems allow you to adjust the indoor climate to align with your schedule. So if you’re not home, you can schedule your unit to turn off until you return. This prevents your air conditioning system from exerting more energy, which helps reduce utility costs.
Use Fan Systems
Air fans are major assets to any HVAC system. By installing ceiling fans, you’ll be able to maximize the airflow in your building. These fans rotate clockwise to prevent excess heat from rising during the summer. Additionally, you should also consider using floor fans in certain rooms to keep the air flow circulating at a healthy level.
Take Advantage of Window Treatments
Windows can generate a lot of heat in a building. As the sun penetrates the glass, your windows can cause the temperature to rise indoors, which will cause the air conditioner to expend more energy. You can combat this heat buildup simply by hanging drapes, blinds, or other window coverings.
Clean Every Vent
When your air conditioner sits idle during the winter, your air vents become storage space for dust, debris, and other substances. Examine all vents and make note of any visible blockages. By unclogging your air vents, you’re opening up enough room for smoother and healthier air circulation. If there are issues that basic maintenance can’t resolve, contact a professional HVAC technician.
Practice Heat Reduction
Other appliances can have a massive effect on your air conditioner. Dryers, stoves, and ovens can generate more heat, which causes your HVAC system to work harder. Fortunately, several alternative practices can help amplify your energy savings. When cooking, try preparing your meals on outside grills. And instead of doing all your laundry at once, run smaller loads and hang your clothes to dry on a sunny day.
Finetune Your Air Conditioner With Service Unlimited
At Service Unlimited, we work tirelessly to help our customers get the most out of their mechanical equipment. Whether it’s residential or commercial HVAC, we have the tools and expertise to help lower energy bills and improve comfort.
Now’s the perfect time to start tuning up your air conditioner, so make sure to schedule your annual maintenance checkup with our team!
How to Tell When Emergency HVAC Repairs Are Needed
It’s easy to take your heating and cooling system for granted until it stops working.
Heating and air conditioning equipment are among the most important assets for any business. Whether you’re running a small startup or a large enterprise, you’ll need to keep the air temperature comfortable at all times. Insufficiently run HVAC systems can create an abundance of work hazards, many of which are severe enough to keep the business out of commission. These are emergency matters that require urgent HVAC repairs by trained HVAC specialists.
When a Commercial HVAC Repair Is Necessary
You might need to schedule an emergency repair for a variety of reasons, but a particular set of warning signs requires special attention. Here are some of the primary things that will sound off the alarms:
You Notice Leaks or Smell Heating Fuel
If you start to get a whiff of a gas or oil, there’s a good chance your HVAC system is malfunctioning. Other times, you may even hear dripping from an AC unit. Leaks can mean a number of different things, but they’re all serious issues. If you notice any gassy odors or spot any coolant leaks, shut off your system, inform your employees, and seek immediate help from a trusted HVAC provider.
The Right Air Temperature Isn’t Being Transmitted
Imagine a factory where the air conditioning doesn’t work on a hot summer day. Now, think about a furnace shutting down during the winter. When you’re running a business, safety is always the No. 1 priority, so if your HVAC system isn’t distributing the appropriate air temperature, you should halt production until working conditions are more suitable for the rest of your staff.
Your Energy Bills Are Outrageous
Have you looked at your utility bills and thought there must be a mistake? That’s probably because there’s a disruption in your HVAC system. Whether it’s an electrical issue or you’re just overdue for some maintenance, it’s best to get an expert onsite to perform an emergency inspection. They’ll be able to identify the source of the problem and patch things up to prevent any future issues.
The Air Conditioner Shuts Off Abruptly
No AC system should shut down by itself. If this happens, it’s an obvious sign that something is wrong. Usually, these issues stem from low coolant levels, which force the system to an abrupt shutdown. These issues are typically resolved through self-evaluation—all you need to do is raise the thermostat by 5 degrees. If the AC system doesn’t start running in a matter of minutes, it’s probably blocked and needs to be unclogged. In this case, it’s best to consult a repair technician to determine that nothing else is wrong.
Schedule an Emergency HVAC Service With Service Unlimited
The Service Unlimited team specializes in high-quality air conditioning repairs. We’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help with any issues that arise. If your HVAC system shuts down, don’t panic. Just give us a call and we’ll be there to provide an immediate remedy.
How to Prepare Your Commercial Air Conditioner for Summer
The key to smooth air conditioning in the summer is to establish an HVAC preventative maintenance plan with the experts at Service Unlimited.
The sun is shining, the kids are out of school, and you’re already planning trips to the waterpark. That’s right, summer is just around the corner. Before you know it, you’ll need to blast the air conditioner on high, but before making that adjustment, you’ll need to perform some annual maintenance. This blog will uncover the secrets needed for you to get your HVAC system in peak form.
Summer Preparation for Your Commercial HVAC System
Most air conditioning systems sit idle during the winter, but when the weather starts getting warmer, the central AC unit becomes more than just a dust collector. This doesn’t mean you can immediately turn the system on full blast, though. That will only cause the equipment to work harder, resulting in higher energy bills, more frustration, and emergency visits from an HVAC technician.
To get your air conditioning equipment running optimally, you’ll need to design a preventative maintenance checklist with these critical steps:
Turn Off the Power
Safety always comes first, so make sure to shut off the cooling system’s power before performing any maintenance. Locate the service panel and flip the circuit breaker to shut off the condenser. Let the system sit for at least 30 minutes before taking the next steps.
Supply Clean Air Filters
Most HVAC systems are equipped with replaceable filters. Many times these filters can even be reused. Check each air-handler at least twice a year and remove any accumulated dust or debris. This helps create a healthier, more efficient airflow throughout the building.
Clean the Condensing Coils
It’s important to clean thoroughly behind the grills and fan blades of your AC system. This area covers the consing system, particularly its coils. These radiator-style fan blades rack up a tremendous amount of dirt and debris during the winter. If the coils remain clogged, it can cause your central AC system to circulate unhealthy air. Your HVAC provider will need to use a special refrigerator coil brush on a vacuum to gently clean out the condensing system.
Declutter the Rest of the Condenser
Once the coils are cleaned, you’ll need to get any excess debris or leaves out of the base of the condenser. It’s likely you’ll find weeds and vines in the system, so make sure to dispose of them. Later on, you’ll need to wipe down the blower’s fan blades and tighten any loose bolts or screws.
Inspect the Coolant Lines
After cleaning the condenser, make sure the refrigerant pipes get checked out. These tubes are typically covered with foam coolant insulation, which helps prevent energy loss. Take note of any punctured or missing layers of coolant. New insulation sleeves will be needed before turning the power back on.
Run the AC Units
The final step in the process is a test run. After cleaning out the system, rinse all parts with a hose and allow the unit to dry. Once the equipment is dry, you’ll need to flip the thermostat off and then turn the system’s power back on. Turn on the circuit breaker and immediately set the thermostat to a “cool” setting. If you find the AC system still isn’t running properly, you may need to schedule a repair with one of our experts.
HVAC Maintenance Done Right
When it comes to heating and cooling, the experts at Service Unlimited are the best team to work with. Whether it’s preventive maintenance, an installation, or an emergency repair, we have the tools and expertise to bring comfort into your building and cost savings to your energy bills. When you’re ready to tune up your air conditioning equipment for the summer, give us a call to schedule your annual maintenance checkup.
4 Reasons to Invest in Commercial HVAC Maintenance
The right preventive maintenance program creates more energy efficiency and higher cost savings, while also reducing headaches associated with an HVAC system.
It’s easy to take our commercial HVAC maintenance equipment for granted until it stops working—and that always seems to happen when we need it most. The fact is, an efficient heating and cooling system is an integral piece of equipment for any type of business. Just think about your air conditioning breaking down during a smoldering summer day or the furnace shutting off during a brisk winter. These types of issues can put your employees’ safety at risk, curtail production, and cost you a lot of money to repair. Luckily, you can avoid most problems by protecting your HVAC system with regular maintenance.
The Importance of HVAC Preventive Maintenance
Signing a preventive maintenance contract with the Service Unlimited team is one of the smartest business decisions you can make. By working with our team, you’ll be able to get optimal results from your HVAC system. These are just some of the primary benefits you’ll be able to take advantage of:
Higher Energy Savings
Heating, cooling, and ventilation account for a majority of energy bills. If your equipment isn’t being cared for properly, accumulated dust, dirt, debris, and other substances can strain its performance. This forces the system to exert more energy, which results in higher utility bills. You can conserve more energy by scheduling a routine maintenance checkup to keep your HVAC equipment in pristine condition.
Extends the Life of Your HVAC Equipment
If your HVAC system isn’t being properly maintained, expect to replace it every five to seven years. This “run-to-failure” method may cost you less in the short term, but in the long run, it can be a major financial setback. By regularly servicing your commercial HVAC system with professional maintenance, you’ll be able to garner its best results for more than 20 years.
Safer Air Quality and More Comfortable Indoor Climate
By establishing a maintenance routine, you’ll be able to keep your system clean and this will help generate a healthier, more consistent air flow. A professional HVAC specialist is responsible for eliminating mechanical obstructions. This helps balance humidity levels, eliminate hot and cold spots, and optimize indoor comfort all around.
Less Downtime, Fewer Repairs, and More Peace of Mind
Without proper maintenance, your HVAC system is bound to encounter a mess of problems. When you face a mechanical disruption, you’ll have to schedule a repair to get your system running again. This can steer you away from your operation and even force a halt in production. When you’re running a business, any downtime is detrimental. Professional maintenance patches up issues before they expand into emergencies. This keeps your HVAC system functioning smoothly and your operation in motion.
Establish Your Maintenance Schedule Today
At Service Unlimited, we take pride in being more than just an ordinary HVAC contractor. We are full-service problem solvers who want to help you get the most from your HVAC system for years to come. If you want to take advantage of a healthier, more comfortable air flow with exceptional cost savings, contact us today to set up your maintenance program!
5 Advantages Of Preventative Maintenance
A significant part of our corporate vision at Service Unlimited is the idea of turning prospective customers into clients and those clients into long-term partners. The reason that we believe the greatest value comes from a long-term partnership is the nature of commercial HVAC systems. Like most pieces of equipment, they benefit from regular maintenance and that type is best performed by technicians that are familiar with the advantages of preventative maintenance within HVAC serving. This is especially true in commercial locations where the working conditions have a direct impact on the performance and productivity of your workplace.
Why does it matter?
Some building owners and managers might ask why they should worry about repairs when their systems are currently running adequately. This is reactive maintenance kind of thinking and it is an inefficient way of managing your resources. Just waiting until you have outwardly noticeable issues will end up costing you more in emergency repair services and the possibly lengthy downtime can disrupt your business operations. Commercial preventative maintenance works to get ahead of these problems proactively before they grind things to a halt.
Why HVAC Preventative Maintenance
- Energy Savings: Someone might look at maintenance costs as a waste of their resources, but one of our maintenance teams can more than make up for those expenses in the savings we’ll bring to your energy bills. Maintenance plans and building operation requires thinking for the long-term and, over time, your various pieces of HVAC equipment will run more efficiently when they are well-maintained.
- Equipment Longevity: HVAC systems for any location are not a minor investment. Commercial HVAC systems are typically one of the most expensive parts of your building and you want to get the longest life possible out of them. A routine preventive maintenance schedule is one of the best strategies for promoting the longevity of your overall system. We will spot issues before they become problems and help you plan for any costs that are likely to come in the future.
- Productivity In the Workplace: The temperatures in the workplace will have a direct impact on the productivity of your workforce. A well-maintained heating and cooling system will be better for your business. Routine HVAC maintenance maintained by a service provider like SUI will also mean there is one less thing on your plate. You can stay focused on your work and let us worry about your HVAC systems.
- Improved Comfort: The whole reason we install air conditioners and heaters to make ourselves more comfortable no matter what time of year it is. An HVAC system that is healthy will provide a higher level of comfort across the board. Creating comfortable work environments is what we do, we are the experts you need to maintain it.
- Healthy Air Quality: One type of air pollution that few people think about is indoor air pollution. The truth is that the quality of your indoor air can have a direct effect on your health and the health of anyone else in your building. Air needs to be efficiently distributed and vented to deliver the indoor air quality that you deserve.
The bottom line is that HVAC preventative maintenance is better for you, your employees, and your business. The advantages found within preventative maintenance are a necessary precaution to protect your business. Don’t let these needs go unchecked and partner with a team that has the expertise you need. Service Unlimited is equipped to maintain a healthy and safe working environment for you. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
