Commercial HVAC systems are the backbone of a building’s comfort and air quality. When running correctly, employees stay productive, customers stay comfortable, and sensitive equipment is kept at the right temperature.
However, like any hardworking system, your commercial HVAC unit won’t last indefinitely. Parts wear out, energy efficiency declines, and frequent repairs can feel like wasting money.
So, how do you know when it’s more than just wear and tear? Below, we’ve broken down the red flags your HVAC system needs to be replaced before it costs you more than it should. Keep reading and see how your commercial heating and cooling system setup stacks up.
Red Flag #1: Your HVAC System Is Over 10 to 15 Years Old
If your commercial HVAC system is older than 10 to 15 years, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan.
On average, most commercial HVAC units have a useful lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. This range can vary based on the type of system, how well it’s been maintained, and how hard it’s had to work over the years.
As HVAC systems age, their efficiency declines, too. Older commercial heating and cooling units do not meet today’s energy standards, leading to higher electricity consumption and inconsistent comfort in your building.
As manufacturers phase out older HVAC models, sourcing repair components becomes more difficult and expensive, resulting in longer downtimes that can disrupt operations in commercial spaces where temperature and air quality are essential.
Investing in a complete HVAC replacement is often more economical long-term than frequently repairing a failing system. Although the upfront cost of a commercial HVAC unit may seem high, it leads to lower energy bills, fewer repairs, and the benefits of a warranty-backed system.
Red Flag #2: Your Energy Bills Are Climbing Each Month
When commercial HVAC systems begin to decline, they often do so quietly. An aging or underperforming commercial AC unit consumes more power to maintain the same output, resulting in stealthy electricity cost escalations.
Several technical issues can lead to decreased energy performance, such as
- Dirty condenser or evaporator coils
- Low refrigerant levels
- Aging blower motors
- Ductwork leaks
Even if these problems seem minor individually, the overall impact on your energy expenses can be substantial over time. And without regular commercial HVAC maintenance, they pile up and go unnoticed until bills raise red flags.
This is where the discussion about cost-effectiveness becomes crucial. While the initial cost of a commercial AC unit or a complete HVAC replacement can be substantial, the future savings in energy consumption often make the investment worthwhile.
Red Flag #3: Inconsistent Indoor Temperatures Across the Building
Ever walk into one part of your building and it’s cold, then head to another area and it feels stuffy and warm? You’re likely dealing with temperature imbalances – one of the most common (and frustrating) signs your commercial HVAC system is on its way out.
These temperature differences often boil down to one thing: inconsistent airflow. The system usually no longer distributes conditioned air evenly across the building.
Sometimes, aging ductwork may develop leaks or blockages. Faulty thermostats and malfunctioning zone controls can also cause issues in older commercial HVAC systems as they wear down over time.
It’s also possible your HVAC system might be improperly sized for your current layout. Renovations, new equipment, or changes in room usage can make the original design inadequate. This mismatch results in uneven heating or cooling, regardless of thermostat adjustments.
Red Flag #4: Frequent Breakdowns and Costly Repairs
If you’ve had to call your HVAC technician more than twice in one season that you’re now on a first-name basis with your HVAC crew, it’s time to look at the bigger picture.
Your commercial HVAC system is nearing the end of its life.
Frequent malfunctions indicate that your HVAC equipment may be losing efficiency. In complex commercial systems, one failing component can strain the entire system, leading to more repairs. If you’re always addressing issues, your system may be nearing the end of its life.
At some point, it becomes a numbers game. That’s where the “50% Rule” comes in. If repairing your HVAC system costs over 50% of a new commercial unit, replacing the system is usually wiser.
Red Flag #5: Foul or Unusual Odors from the Vents
In many cases, odors are one of the first warning signs that something deeper is going wrong inside your system. And depending on the smell, it could point to anything from a minor issue to a serious health and safety risk for your building occupants.
Let’s break down what different types of odors might mean.
A burning or smoky smell is often tied to electrical or motor problems. If your commercial AC unit gives off this scent, it could mean overheating components, wiring issues, or even a motor close to failure.
A persistent musty or damp odor may indicate mold or mildew in the HVAC system, especially in older units that haven’t been serviced regularly. Poor humidity control and moisture create an environment for mold, which can harm air quality and trigger respiratory issues for employees or tenants.
A chemical or sweet smell could indicate a refrigerant leak in commercial HVAC systems. This not only decreases system performance but also introduces harmful substances into indoor air.
Occasional odors after a weekend shutdown or deep cleaning may be normal. However, if the smells are recurring or getting stronger, it may indicate internal deterioration of your HVAC system, suggesting that a complete replacement could be necessary.
Red Flag #6: Unusual Noises During Operation
A healthy, properly functioning HVAC system in a commercial building should run quietly and consistently in the background, not draw attention to itself. So when clanking, grinding, hissing, or high-pitched squealing start to show up, it’s a clear sign something’s off.
Each type of noise tends to point to a different kind of issue. For instance, a clanking or rattling sound might mean a loose part inside the system, like a fan blade or motor mount, that’s knocking around during operation.
A grinding noise typically indicates worn motor bearings, suggesting the motor is under strain. If it fails, repair costs for commercial AC units may increase significantly.
A squealing sound may indicate a slipping or fraying belt in older commercial HVAC units.
A hissing sound could signal a refrigerant leak, which is crucial to fix due to potential health risks and its importance for cooling.
Occasional brief sounds during system start-up are common in older units. However, if noises are loud, frequent, or worsening over time, it’s important to investigate further, as they may indicate internal wear that regular HVAC maintenance can’t address.
Red Flag #7: The System Turns On and Off Randomly (Short-Cycling)
A well-functioning commercial HVAC system should operate in consistent cycles to maintain a stable indoor temperature. If it starts to turn off too soon and then restarts shortly after, this disrupts the normal rhythm, which can easily lead to larger operational issues.
Short-cycling can quickly wear out HVAC equipment. Frequent startups and shutdowns put stress on components like the compressor, increasing the risk of failure and lowering energy efficiency. Buildings with this issue often face higher utility bills and more frequent repairs.
There are several possible causes for this behavior. It may be something as simple as a thermostat that’s out of calibration, dirty evaporator or condenser coils, or duct obstructions.
In other cases, short cycling can result from something more systemic, like an HVAC unit that was improperly sized for your building.
Oversized commercial HVAC systems can cool or heat a space too quickly, causing them to shut down before completing a full cycle. While this seems efficient, the frequent on-off pattern can harm the long-term health of the equipment.
When a system short-cycles persistently despite servicing, it’s often a sign that the equipment has reached the end of its useful life. This is where exploring a complete HVAC replacement becomes more practical.
Is it time to re-evaluate your HVAC system?
One or two warning signs might call for maintenance. But if you’re dealing with three or more, it’s time to consider a full HVAC replacement seriously.
Upgrading your commercial HVAC system can improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and prevent constant breakdowns, especially in busy commercial buildings.
If you’re experiencing ongoing issues, our team at Jovel Inc. is here to evaluate your system and guide you through the best next steps, whether it’s a commercial HVAC repair, maintenance, or a complete upgrade.
Let’s keep your building running smoothly. Reach out today for a free commercial HVAC system evaluation!