Is it time to replace your commercial HVAC system?

A commercial HVAC system plays a key role in maintaining a productive and comfortable environment for your business or residential setting. However, like other mechanical systems, your HVAC systems and equipment will eventually break down and need to be replaced. It goes without saying that proper maintenance is crucial to extending the lifecycle of an HVAC system. The equipment may continue to seem like it is operating as per design, but there are a variety of factors which should be reviewed regularly to assess whether the system should be replaced. Here are five indicators to look out for:

1. Increasing Energy Consumption

When HVAC equipment begins to age, it is typical to see an increase in energy consumption and a corresponding increase in your utility bills (with consideration of increasing utility costs). This change in energy use is commonly attributed to the HVAC equipment gradually becoming less and less efficient over time. AHU coils and heat exchangers can become fouled, insulation can degrade over time, pumps and fans lose their balance, refrigeration compressors operate at increased lift, etc. If your system has been maintained as scheduled but you start to see an uptick in energy consumption, it could be an indication that you should be considering upgrading your system to a modern, energy-efficient system.

2. Inconsistent Space Conditions

Ideally, your HVAC system can ensure the air temperature in the space being heated or cooled remains relatively uniform year-over-year. However, aged HVAC equipment may struggle to maintain this consistency. Certain areas within the zone served by older equipment may experience hot/cold spots, which can be uncomfortable for occupants and unproductive for your business. Frequent adjustments of temperature set points by users can also result in increased energy use, as discussed earlier. If you are having difficulty maintaining space comfort with an older system, it may be an indicator that it is time to consider replacement.

3. Frequent Breakdowns and Costly Repairs

An aging HVAC system is prone to frequent breakdowns, requiring costly repairs. As components wear over time, they become more susceptible to failure. Similar to a vehicle, if you find yourself calling for professional help more often than usual, it’s a good indicator that your system is nearing the end of its useful life. The frequency and severity of repairs on an older HVAC system tend to increase over time, making it financially advantageous to invest in a new, reliable HVAC system that comes with warranties and reduced maintenance expenses.

4. Substandard Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Ventilation Issues

Ensuring optimal IAQ within your commercial space is especially important in today’s environment, considering factors such as wildfire smoke and minimizing the spread of viruses. Older HVAC systems often struggle to deliver sufficient ventilation and provide the recommended levels of air filtration. It is not uncommon for these systems to provide sub-par IAQ for building occupants, leaving them with allergies, dry eyes, respiratory discomfort, or a lingering sense of staleness in the air. By investing in a modern HVAC system equipped with advanced air filtration and ventilation capabilities, you can enhance the well-being and comfort of your employees and customers. Moreover, this proactive measure can also bolster your compliance with current IAQ standards as well as any subsequently released Federal regulations.

5. Noises, Leaks, and Other Malfunctions

Listen closely for any atypical noises such as banging, rattling, or squealing emanating from each piece of HVAC equipment. Older systems frequently generate increased noise levels as their components wear down, often serving as audible indicators of underlying problems that might not lend themselves to easy fixes. Furthermore, be vigilant for signs such as leaks and unusual odors, such as oil or smoke, which can also be indicative of a faltering HVAC system. Continuous commissioning of HVAC systems can help to extend their lifecycle. This can include monitoring items such as bearing vibration sensors on fans and pumps to proactively correct operational issues before they cause more significant issues. Eventually, replacing your HVAC equipment with new, dependable products can usher in a quieter, more efficient, and hassle-free era of operation for your business. 

Transitioning to modern HVAC systems actively supports your long-term environmental and operational goals. While the replacement of commercial HVAC systems or components might appear daunting at first, it becomes much more manageable when collaborating with companies well-versed in intricate retrofit projects. HTS Engineering has extensive experience in numerous retrofit assignments and a proven track record of simplifying complex HVAC upgrades. One noteworthy example of our expertise in action is the completion of multiple rooftop unit replacements during COVID-19 at multiple regional school board buildings. The Engineering Sales team at HTS Hamilton worked closely with both the school board and the consulting engineer to ensure that the new units would meet updated air filtration, ventilation, and energy efficiency requirements. To meet these requirements, the team fitted these Daikin Rebel Rooftop Units with MERV8 and MERV14 filters, ECM fans, as well as energy recovery wheels to recover and reuse energy that would otherwise be wasted. HTS Engineering facilitated a seamless retrofit installation by leveraging their experience and engaging all involved stakeholders as required.