Most Common Commercial HVAC Problems
At The Severn Group, we see a lot of commercial HVAC problems. Businesses throughout Maryland and the Washington metro areas call on us to maintain and service their HVAC systems. As such, our team has seen it all, from the minor problems to the major ones. Here are some of the most common issues that facility and operations managers run into.
Clogged Filters
HVAC filters trap the dirt, dust, and allergens in the air. As particles collect over time, the filter will have to be changed regularly. Otherwise, the whole system is at risk of clogging and not working properly. When this happens, air quality can suffer. You may notice allergies or health issues creeping up where they didn’t before. Clogged filters, when not changed, can even reduce the overall life of the system. The harder it has to work, the more wear and tear you will see.
Changing the filters is a quick fix that some business owners can handle on their own. However, the difficulty is that most HVACs are hard to reach. For example, many of them are located on the roof, which makes it difficult to access. Because of this, HVAC systems are commonly overlooked. If that’s the case, call the technicians at The Severn Group to take care of the preventative maintenance.
Ductwork Problems
Heated and cooled air travels through a network of ducts. As such, there are dampers inside each duct to help direct airflow. Unfortunately, any minor issue with either of these parts can impact comfort and efficiency. Some common problems include imbalanced dampers, leaks, corrosion, and clogs. Additionally, the ducts can also become loose or dented. If they collapse, the HVAC should be serviced right away. Ductwork problems can also cause the following issues, including:
- Poor temperature control
- Hot and cold spots throughout the building
- Loud unfamiliar noises
- Strange odors
- Headaches, dizziness, and fatigue
- Eye, nose and/or throat irritation
- Increased monthly energy bills
- Frequently clogged filters
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Dealing with uncomfortable temperatures? Well, the issue could stem from the thermostat, which plays an important role in timing and airflow. If it’s not working correctly, the building could feel hotter or cooler than normal. Also, you may notice rapid temperature fluctuations. For instance, the building might feel chilly one moment, and very warm the next. In turn, these temperature issues can drastically affect employee productivity and happiness. It’s important to keep everyone comfortable, so be sure to get the thermostat inspected often.
Missed Maintenance Appointments
General upkeep is extremely important. However, some tenants make the mistake of neglecting maintenance. And unfortunately, that’s how many commercial HVAC problems arise. During routine maintenance, the service technician inspects the system for potential issues. And, responding to these issues early can help you save on costs later on. On the other hand, preventative maintenance also helps maximize the HVAC’s lifespan. In addition to running diagnostic tests, a technician can replace belts, inspect lines, clear components, change filters, and check air quality.
The Severn Group can help you avoid commercial HVAC problems. If you are a facility or operations manager, don’t hesitate to sign up for our preventative maintenance program. You’ll be glad that you did. Contact us today for more information.