Your HVAC system is getting old, not working as efficiently, and costing you too much money. What’s the best solution? A retrofit HVAC system. It’s an ideal alternative to replacing your entire unit outright. Continue reading for everything you need to know.
Timing Your Commercial HVAC Retrofit
Depending on the current state of your equipment, an HVAC retrofit could be more or less appropriate. For example, if your equipment is aged to the point where it is barely functioning or not functioning at all, it might be too late for retrofitting equipment to bring it back to life.
However, it is unlikely that all of your systems have gone out at the same time. A more typical situation is that some units need to be outright replaced while others can be saved with retrofits designed to increase their effective lifespan and efficiency.
The Benefits of a Commercial HVAC Retrofit Job
First, let’s review a few benefits of a retrofit job versus an outright replacement. In the end, it all comes down to overall costs.
- Energy Efficiency: One of the targets of most retrofitting jobs is to improve energy efficiency. Because a retrofit is not as expensive as a full-scale replacement, energy savings will put a larger dent in the project’s overall cost.
- Equipment Lifespan: Replacements are expensive, and retrofitting can put off replacement jobs for at least several years. We’ll keep your systems running efficiently, buying you time before units need to be totally replaced.
- Worker Productivity: One of the biggest costs of ineffective HVAC equipment is lost employee productivity. Sure, this cost isn’t reflected on its face on your balance sheet, but comfortable working conditions have a direct impact on whether or not people can do their jobs well.
- Predictability: Old HVAC systems can work intermittently, particularly in the harsher seasons, and are more prone to unexpected failure. Retrofitting offers peace of mind.
It is important to remember that no system, retrofitted or otherwise, will last forever. However, retrofitting is the most viable option if you don’t have room in the budget for the tens of thousands of dollars it will take to replace even small amounts of equipment.
Signs That You Need an HVAC Retrofit
By recognizing these signs, you can determine when it’s time for an HVAC retrofit. When in doubt, consult with HVAC professionals who can assess your system’s condition and recommend retrofitting solutions tailored to your business needs.
Uneven Heating or Cooling
One of the most noticeable signs that you may need an HVAC retrofit is uneven heating or cooling within your commercial space. If some areas are too warm while others remain chilly, it could indicate an outdated or inefficient system. Uneven temperature distribution may result from ductwork issues, component wear, or an improperly sized system. An HVAC retrofit can address these problems by optimizing your system’s capacity, upgrading ductwork, and ensuring balanced airflow for consistent comfort throughout your building.
Rising Energy Bills
Escalating energy bills indicates that your HVAC system may struggle to maintain efficiency. Older systems become less energy-efficient, causing increased energy consumption and higher costs. An HVAC retrofit can introduce energy-efficient components, such as high-efficiency furnaces or air conditioners, and implement modern controls to reduce your energy expenses, enhancing cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
Frequent Repairs and Maintenance
If you frequently call for HVAC repairs and maintenance, it might be time for an HVAC retrofit. Constant breakdowns and ongoing maintenance indicate that your system is becoming unreliable and inefficient. Retrofitting can provide you with a more reliable and durable system, reducing the need for frequent repairs and ensuring smoother operation.
Aging Equipment
HVAC systems have a finite lifespan, typically around 15-20 years. If your commercial HVAC equipment is approaching or exceeding this age range, it’s a sign that an HVAC retrofit should be considered. Older systems are more prone to inefficiency, decreased performance, and higher maintenance costs. Retrofitting can modernize your equipment, improving efficiency and extending its operational life.
The Commercial HVAC Retrofit Process
React Technical takes a consultative approach to each of our clients’ systems. Especially when it comes to HVAC, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution. We will take an inventory of your units and judge which pieces will likely need to be replaced in the short term and which can be repaired, restored, or even improved with retrofitting technology.
We will also be able to inform you about when the best time to approach the project might be. Generally, these projects are taken on as proactive measures in the fall and the spring. Our recommendations may change depending on the state of your equipment and when we are performing our inspection.
When to Retrofit Air Conditioning and Heating
Though you may have cool or warm days during spring or fall that could demand the use of your heating or air conditioning systems, the milder seasons are generally thought of as the off-season.
Late September to mid-November and early March to mid-May are, for the most part, the best time to consider retrofitting your system. One of the worst things that can happen to your business is that the HVAC shuts down in one of the year’s harsher months. Though not as disruptive as a total equipment failure, a retrofitting project will inherently involve some system downtime.
The best time to experience downtime is in the mild months; therefore, the decision seems to make itself. Now, if for some reason you are only retrofitting one half of your system, AC, or heating, it is best to do this before they are needed. Otherwise, you risk stressing out an aged system and promoting failure. So, we’ll generally advise AC in Spring and heating in the fall.
Another factor to consider is that HVAC components tend to climb in price during the harsher months. So, not only could you incur lost productivity, but you will be forced to essentially give your money away in the form of higher prices. HVAC retrofit residential and commercial services certainly have advantages depending on the time of year you approach your project.
React Technical: Your Source for Quality Commercial HVAC Retrofit Jobs
The bottom line is that everything starts with a system inspection. Until a professional comes out and sees what they’re working with, it’s difficult to say what your retrofitting project might look like. If you want to save money on your energy bill every month and avoid an unpredictable and unnecessary future failure, call the React Technical experts today.