How to Prepare Your Commercial Air Conditioner for Summer

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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.

How to Tell When Emergency HVAC Repairs Are Needed

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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 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.

7 Surefire Ways to Get Your HVAC Summer-Ready

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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!

4 Reasons You Should Invest in Commercial HVAC Maintenance

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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 heating and cooling 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 Commercial 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!

How In-House Fabrication Helps Us Deliver Better Service

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All of our years of service have taught us that the best way to deliver value to our clients is by being your single source of HVAC system solutions. To address this, we have structured our services to provide everything you will need from a single point of contact. This makes your projects simpler to plan and easier to execute. One of the ways that we have expanded our services is by developing and running our own in-house fabrication shop for ductwork.

As a versatile HVAC installer, we work in a variety of conditions and with many different raw materials. We saw the opportunity to enhance our services and to eliminate inefficiencies by creating our own metal fabrication shop. We did this so we could become a better service provider and pass on all of the advantages to our clients. Our HVAC fabrication facility comes with several benefits that make us the best provider for your business.

The Advantages Of In-House Fabrication

  • Time
    • The most significant benefit of having in-house fabrication in our facility is the time it saves both you and us. Using a contracted third party adds time to the overall project and another level of complexity that is unnecessary. We have a more efficient supply chain with few links in the chain between your project design and installation process.   
  • Quality Control
    • Contracting sheet metal ducts out to a third party, even a reliable partner, puts the quality of our work in someone else’s hands. With our own shop, we are able to deliver greater quality assurance and stand behind the manufacturing process that we manage. We are your single source for HVAC systems, and we are proud of the work we do.   
  • Lower Labor Cost
    • Without a third party, we do not pay the markup prices for the added processes at someone else’s fabrication facility. We are able to pass those savings on to you by lowering our overall costs. Operating within our shop also means we have our processes for managing your projects and equipment. This cuts down on any downtime or disruptions in your project deadlines.
  • Tailored Solutions
    • When it comes to heating and air conditioning systems, it is all about the efficient distribution of air throughout your facility. The best way to deliver those results is with systems that have been designed and developed with your unique requirements in mind. Our in-house fab shop enables us to provide solutions that are not one-size-fits-all.  
  • Reduces Waste
    • Being in charge of the complete fabrication process empowers us to reduce the amount of overall waste from any project. Less waste means lower material costs for you and a reduced impact on the environment. This is an advantage for everyone involved.
  • Ensures Compliance
    • Depending on your industry and location, there are different regulations and building codes that any project must abide by. SUI is already familiar with maintaining compliance with industry standards and federal regulations. Keeping our process in house means that we are able to exercise greater control to make sure all of your equipment and hardware meet your compliance needs.

To learn more about our in-house fabrication process and all of the services we offer, contact Service Unlimited today. We are here to create a comfortable working environment for you and your business.

The Benefits Of An HVAC Retrofit

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The commercial heating and air conditioning system for your building is going to be one of your most significant investments over the life of your facility. Most standard systems have a life cycle that spans somewhere between 15 and 25 years, and when the time comes for a new system there are more options than just a straight replacement. In many cases, a high-efficiency commercial HVAC retrofit can save time and money while providing the level of service that your business needs.

The Benefits Of Retrofitting Your HVAC System

There is no perfect HVAC system that will last forever. Someday your existing system will either need to be replaced or retrofitted. Service Unlimited, Inc. has years of experience in retrofitting heating and cooling systems for a wide variety of facilities, from churches to manufacturing plants.

In this blog post, we cover the advantages of an HVAC retrofit and the ways it could benefit your business.

  • Energy Savings
    • Retrofitting existing systems is one of the fastest solutions for reducing energy usage. It is a quicker process than a complete replacement and can address chronic issues that have been dragging down your HVAC equipment’s efficiency.
  • System Longevity
    • An entire system replacement will deliver results, but it can be a costly and time-consuming process. Implementing a retrofit program to address defective or obsolete parts can give your HVAC system a whole new life. These strategies are designed to maintain your systems and give you more time to plan for that eventual replacement process.
  • Adaptability
    • Most commercial facilities change over time. You might build on an addition, renovate existing space, or add new structures. The retrofitting process will enable your systems to adapt to your changing needs. At SUI, we want your HVAC systems to work for you—not the other way around.
  • Improved Air Quality
    • Over time, older systems show signs of aging and a drop in performance, and some older HVAC equipment will become louder over the years. We want your heating and cooling equipment to be felt and not heard. A modern retrofit will deliver a quieter operation and a higher level of performance for your workplace. Providing comfortable workspaces is the most significant purpose of your HVAC devices; SUI is here to ensure they deliver.
  • Technology Upgrades
    • Technology is always growing and changing; the same is true for HVAC systems. You don’t want to miss out on new energy-efficient devices or ways of cutting energy costs because your system is too old or you can’t afford a total replacement. The retrofit process allows us to update your equipment to provide a system that runs consistently and productively.
  • Rapid Return On Investment
    • One of the major selling points of any HVAC service that we provide is that it will pay for itself in lower repair costs and increased efficiency. A retrofit will provide the same return on investment, but it does so faster than a total replacement or new HVAC installation.

There is no avoiding the fact that your HVAC systems will need to be replaced one day, but the retrofitting process from SUI can ensure that replacement is easier to plan for and is a less costly experience. To learn more about HVAC retrofitting and all of our other services, contact Service Unlimited today.

5 Advantages Of HVAC Preventative Maintenance

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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 your needs and HVAC services. This is especially true in commercial locations where the working conditions have a direct impact on the performance and productivity of your workplace.

Why Should I Be Concerned About A Preventative Maintenance Program?

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.

The Advantages Of HVAC Preventative Maintenance

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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. 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.