If you own a commercial building, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How long does my air conditioner last?” Use this detailed HVAC replacement guide to answer that question and learn about best practices for replacing your AC units.
How Long Does My Air Conditioner Last?
The average HVAC life span is 15 to 20 years—but some units don’t last that long. If you notice a random spike in your energy bills, your HVAC might be the problem. Outdated systems require more energy because they work harder to produce the same amount of output and consistent temperatures and quality of air. Other signs your AC unit has reached the end of its life include:
- It’s blowing warm air instead of cold
- The airflow is weak
- Your building constantly feels humid
- The unit is producing strange smells
- Loud or unusual noises are coming from your unit
- Increased running times
- It needs frequent and significant repairs
Do you need to replace your AC unit? React has the tools to get the job done right the first time.
How To Replace AC Units in Commercial Buildings
Taking out your HVAC system and installing a new one can feel overwhelming if you’ve never done it before. With our HVAC replacement guide, it’s much less overwhelming. Here’s what you need to do to ensure your HVAC installation goes smoothly:
Size
Residential HVAC units are much smaller than commercial units. A single-family home requires only one unit and one thermostat. Less energy is needed to operate a residential HVAC unit, so it doesn’t need to be as large as commercial HVAC systems.
Determine the Location of Your HVAC Installation
Your HVAC’s location is crucial. It needs to be in a large space away from your daily working space with enough room for proper ventilation. The location of your HVAC varies depending on its size, type, and components.
Talk with your HVAC technician about location and get their advice to find the best placement for your new system.
Decide on a Heating and Cooling System
The square footage and number of people in your building help determine the type of HVAC you need. Commercial HVAC systems include:
- Single-split system: Consists of indoor and outdoor air conditioning units connected with a copper pipe
- Multi-split system: Includes an outdoor compressor connected to four or five indoor outlets with refrigerant lines
- Constant air volume (CAV): Operates the fan and compressor at full volume until the temperature drops to a specified setting
- Variable refrigerant flow (VRF): Includes outdoor and indoor units connected with refrigerant piping
- Heat pump: An AC unit that also works in reverse to create heat
- Variable air volume (VAV): Consists of one supply duct that varies airflow at a constant temperature
Each HVAC system is unique and complex, so ask your HVAC provider which type of unit suits your commercial building’s needs.
Make the Proper Arrangements
Make the proper arrangements for your HVAC technician on the day of your HVAC installation. Replace your AC unit on a day when no one is in the building because completing the installation while people are there could potentially be dangerous and disruptive to normal business operations.
Make sure your technician has enough space to complete the HVAC installation by clearing the area of clutter, equipment, and appliances. You want the process to go as smoothly as possible in case problems arise.
Receive an HVAC Inspection
After your HVAC installation is complete, schedule an inspection with your HVAC contractor. During your inspection, your technician will:
- Test and calibrate your thermostat
- Evaluate the airflow
- Inspect refrigerant levels
- Ensure new equipment is running properly
- Check the heater, blower motor, gas connections, and drip pans
Inspections ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly and your indoor air quality is high. This is the last step of the HVAC installation process—but all HVAC systems require regular maintenance to stay in good condition.
Implement a Regular Maintenance Program
After your HVAC contractor installs your new system, set up a regular maintenance program. These programs help keep your HVAC working properly and typically include the following services:
- Air filter inspection and replacement
- Thermostat audits
- System checks
- Compressor inspection
- Coil, cabinet, pan, and line cleaning
- Debris removal
- General cleaning
- Belt lubrication
- Burner inspection and cleaning
- Duct system inspections
- Safety controls test
Maintenance checks help prevent more significant HVAC damage and improve energy efficiency because a poorly working HVAC system wastes energy.
After reading this HVAC replacement guide, you might be thinking, “Where should I start?”
React Industries is a New York City-based HVAC provider that offers:
- Regular maintenance
- VRF installation
- HVAC replacement
- Emergency repairs
- Inspections
- And so much more!
Since 1983, we’ve provided our customers with high-quality service and repairs and have been a reliable HVAC resource for commercial building owners. Contact our expert team today to learn more about our HVAC installation process.