The usual life expectancy of most commercial HVAC units ranges between 12 and 17 years. However, life expectancy is subject to several factors like the quality of installation, proper maintenance care, operating conditions, usage, and HVAC type. You can take several actions to make sure that your HVAC system serves for many years. You should follow these tips to extend its life.
Schedule Routine Tune-Ups
Many of the HVAC systems in the market do not require high maintenance. However, this does not mean that you should not invest in regular HVAC system maintenance. Your furnace and air conditioner need at least one or two tune-ups and cleaning annually.
Therefore, it is recommended that you schedule service for your furnace in the fall and the AC system in the spring. Such a move would guarantee the efficiency of your HVAC unit and extend its lifespan.
The most common tune-up for HVAC systems includes inspection and lubrication of all moving parts. Your licensed technician can check the refrigerant levels, remove debris in the condensate drain tube, replace filters, and inspect the heat exchanger for cracks.
You should always repair your HVAC system whenever you find problems or broken pipes. This helps you avert serious repairs or replacements in the future. In addition, it keeps the cost of repairs low.
Immediate repairs will help you fix minor issues before they become severe. Maintenance also increases comfort and reduces the monthly expenditure of running the HVAC system. Furthermore, it will ensure that the HVAC operates at optimal levels and reduces the number of particulates like dust, pollen, mold. This will improve the overall indoor quality.
Ensure That the HVAC Unit Is the Proper Size
You must ensure that the HVAC system installed in your building is the right size. A certified technician will help you calculate your HVAC unit’s actual load and size. If a wrong HVAC unit size is installed in a commercial building, the system will be overworked. This will result in much faster wear and tear than anticipated.
When you select an HVAC system too small for your building, the unit must work harder than usual to maintain comfortable conditions. As a result, the HVAC unit will run without stopping trying to maintain the set temperature.
Conversely, if you select a system that is too large for your building, the unit will achieve the desired temperature quicker. Although this might sound favorable, it causes frequent cycling and moisture accumulation. Frequent cycling promotes further wear and tear.
Regular Filter Change
Although a technician conducts regular tune-ups of your HVAC system that include checking your filter during an annual visit, you can carry out the filter change yourself between visits. It is a straightforward task that will extend the life of your HVAC unit.
Most HVAC systems come with fiberglass filters that should be changed after about a month of use. Others have a pleated filter that lasts upwards of three months. You should know the type of filter your unit uses before changing the filters. Conduct regular checks for dirt or debris in the filter and HVAC system.
If your filter is dirty, consider replacing it immediately to increase the lifespan and effectiveness of your air conditioner. You can change the filter before the scheduled time arrives. When a filter is extremely dirty, the system usually overworks to circulate air in your building. This becomes problematic to the entire HVAC system, especially the fans.
Avoid Overworking the Unit
One way that you might overwork your HVAC system is by setting unrealistic thermostat levels. For instance, you should not set your thermostat temperature at 70 degrees when the temperature outside is 105 degrees. In such a case, the air conditioner would run throughout the day without stopping, trying to achieve the desired temperature.
You can avoid overworking your system by setting realistic temperature levels on your thermostat. Moreover, you can install a smart or programmable thermostat to ensure that your HVAC runs optimally. In addition, the programmable thermostat would help set reasonable temperature levels that the unit can achieve without undergoing wear and tear.
Utilize the Fan Settings
Most of the commercial HVAC units on the market come with two settings: auto and on. The former instructs the fan in your HVAC to run only when the system is actively heating or cooling. Meanwhile, the “on” setting instructs the fan to run without stopping.
However, there are modern HVAC systems with dual-speed fans. The dual-speed fans offer a slow and energy-efficient setting for the system between heating and cooling cycles. Although the “on” setting is not always recommended, it has several advantages. For example, it helps the HVAC system trap dust and dirt that cause allergies.
However, leaving your HVAC system on the “on” setting for extended periods can reduce the lifespan of your air conditioner significantly. In addition, the filter would clog up faster than usual and obstruct airflow.
Protect the HVAC system From the Elements
You can lengthen the lifespan of your commercial HVAC by protecting it from the elements. If your unit is outside the building, ensure that it has a shade. The shade should offer protection from rain and direct sunlight.
You can help your system have a longer lifespan by closing the blinds during summer. Additionally, installing ceiling fans will help your system cool your building faster during summer. Furthermore, ensure proper air circulation in the building, especially near the HVAC unit, to ensure that it does not overwork to cool or heat the rooms.
Check the Condenser
Although the condenser in your HVAC system is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, it can suffer damage from debris and hail that would require immediate attention if it occurs. After a hailstorm, be sure to inspect your HVAC unit for signs of damage to the condenser. Remove debris and weeds that might damage or block airflow to your air conditioner.
Upgrade Insulation in Your Building
You should check if the building has sufficient insulation. The amount of insulation a building requires is based on several factors, such as the floor space and location. You can use the insulation climate offered by the Environmental Protection Agency to select the best insulation options for your building.
Upgrading your insulation can help your system achieve the desired temperature faster and effectively. Commercial building owners should consider professional energy audits to establish what building areas require upgrading. Usually, the basement and wall cavities require more insulation than other building sections.
Many factors play a central role in the life expectancy of commercial HVAC units. You can improve the lifespan of your HVAC commercial unit by following the ideas mentioned above. Ensure that the system is well-maintained to extend its lifespan. If you want to learn more about HVAC systems and professional maintenance, consider contacting Beyer Mechanical.
Beyer Mechanical has over 25 years of experience providing HVAC services. We are reliable, have trusted technicians, maintain high safety standards, and offer 24/7 emergency services. Our professionals handle system installation, remodels, in-house engineering, design, project starts, construction, and systems installation. Call us at Beyer Mechanical today.
