Did you know indoor air can be up to 100 times more polluted than outdoor air? Or, that a single tobacco smoker can contaminate the entire indoor space?

These are two examples of common heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) problems.

Commercial HVAC design and maintenance is something owners take for granted until it’s too late. Then inferior ventilation becomes an irate client’s number one complaint. This pushes out poor customer service and poor business.

Take a moment to review some of the most common HVAC problems in commercial buildings.

Identifying the Most Common Commercial HVAC Problems

Commercial buildings rely on their HVAC systems to keep their occupants comfortable and healthy. They almost face a variety of HVAC-related problems due to the sheer size and complexity of these systems.

Common HVAC issues encountered in commercial buildings include:

Improper Airflow

Airflow of air systems is an essential element that must be balanced correctly for the health and comfort of the building occupants. If the airflow is not set correctly, the system can experience temperature fluctuation and air pressure issues. It can also result in airflow restriction and decreased air circulation.

Improper airflow can also cause dust and dirt particles to accumulate inside the unit and eventually lead to clogging of the system. This can then reduce its efficiency.

Thermostat Malfunction

Without a properly working thermostat, it’s difficult to effectively control the temperature in a building. Even the slightest problem with a thermostat can lead to major HVAC problems.

An inaccurate thermostat can turn a building’s heating and cooling system on and off too often. This not only leads to inconsistent temperatures but also wastes electricity and damages the system by overworking certain parts.

A malfunctioning thermostat can feed incorrect readings to the HVAC system. This will result in improper temperature control and an inefficient system.

Condensate Drain Clogs

These clogs can occur in the form of standing water and rusty puddles. This can result from dirt, dust, and other debris buildup blocking the drainage pipe.

If these clogs are not spotted early, they can damage flooring and also cause other costly issues with the system. The best way to fix this problem is to schedule regular maintenance checks of the HVAC system. The technician can then clean the air conditioning unit and ensure all the drainage pipes are clear.

Refrigerant Leaks

These can occur if there is a problem with the seals, valves, tubing, or other components of a commercial AC system. Leaks cause pressure to decrease. This then leads to inadequate cooling or heating.

Leaking refrigerant can harm the environment. This means that property owners must act quickly when a leak is discovered. Leaks must be located, identified, and repaired in order to prevent further damage to the building.

Refilling the system with refrigerant is also necessary after a successful repair to ensure the HVAC system runs as intended.

Ensure you take preventive measures and take corrective actions to correct any HVAC repairs. This can help to maintain indoor air quality and ensure your HVAC system’s longevity. A proper building management system can also help you out.

Seek Professional Advice Now

In conclusion, the most common HVAC problems in commercial buildings can lead to expensive repairs over time. The best way to prevent these issues is regular preventative maintenance and seeking help from qualified professionals when issues arise.

Contact a professional today for up-to-date advice and recommendations for your commercial building’s HVAC system.

Want to learn more about other products and services? Check out the rest of our blog!