Explore Air Conditioner Solutions
No matter what type of business you operate in an industrial or commercial structure, you need it to be comfortable inside, especially in the Orange, California summers. Employees work better when comfortable, customers spend more time shopping when comfortable, and any materials or products of your business are protected when the interior climate is comfortable. This means having a dependable commercial AC contractor on hand when needed is important.
Are commercial and residential AC systems different?
No, while they have the same goal, keeping the interior comfortable, a commercial AC system is more complex, mostly because it is larger. A commercial unit requires more power and typically has several zones to treat, spread over more area. As such, commercial AC contractors have additional training than residential AC contractors. Other differences between residential and commercial AC systems include:
- The placement of the unit. In a home, there is a component inside the house, typically in a closet, and an exterior unit just outside of the home. Most commercial AC systems are installed on the roof for a variety of reasons, such as the noise and the amount of space needed that would take up valuable parking space.
- The drainage system of a commercial AC unit for the moisture that accumulates while operating. For a residential system, there is a drain line and drain pan. A commercial AC system, because it is larger, will have multiple drain lines that should be inspected by a commercial AC contractor regularly.
- The energy use of a commercial system is more than a residential unit. A commercial AC contractor can usually handle the electric wiring, but they may need to bring in a professional electrician if the wiring and connection are complicated.
What type of maintenance does a commercial HVAC system require?
No matter what type of HVAC system your commercial or industrial structure has, it will require maintenance to keep it functioning. That maintenance should be on a routine schedule that includes the following tasks, some your own maintenance team can do, and others will need to be done by a commercial AC contractor:
- Air Filters: Inspect and Clean
This is a simple step that will have a significant impact on the system’s energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Thermostat: Calibration
Calibration of the thermostat will keep the interior temperature consistent which eases the energy consumption.
- Electrical Components: Inspected
This should be done by a professional commercial AC contractor. They are trained and have the proper tools to inspect and repair if needed the electrical connections, terminals, and wiring.
- All Moving Parts
Again, this is best when done by a professional commercial AC contractor. They will inspect, clean, and lubricate all moving parts like bearings and motors. Keeping these lubricated will extend the lifespan of the system.
- The Coils: Inspect and Clean
Your maintenance team can do this each month, and once a year have a commercial AC contractor inspect the evaporator and condenser coils. They will clean off any accumulated debris and dirt that can hamper the heat exchange and reduce the system’s efficiency.
- Drainage Lines and Drain Pans
A commercial AC contractor will inspect the drain lines and drain pans, cleaning or replacing them as necessary.
- Refrigerant Levels Checked
When the refrigerant levels are low, the compressor can be damaged as the system tries to operate. If the refrigerant is low, this will require a professional commercial AC contractor to add more.
- Blower Components: Inspect and Calibrated
The blower assembly is what distributes the conditioned air throughout the commercial structure. A professional commercial AC contactor will have the tools needed to thoroughly inspect them and calibrate them to keep them in proper working order.
Additional Steps
With an annual visit by a commercial AC contractor, they will also inspect the air duct system for any blockages or leaks. They will then test the system to ensure it is functioning correctly.
What are indicators your compressor isn’t working correctly?
The compressor is a vital part of any commercial AC system, and if you notice any of the following, contact a commercial AC contractor immediately:
- Strange sounds: If you hear any clicking, grinding, or rattling sounds coming from the AC system, it often is because the compressor motor is worn out. It can also indicate that there are bat capacitors or relays. Any of these things will need the attention of a commercial AC contractor.
- Leaking condenser: If you notice puddles around the condenser, it may be a refrigerant leak, requiring inspection by a commercial AC contractor.
- AC isn’t cooling adequately: If the air conditioning isn’t keeping the interior of the structure cool, it can be a few different things. A commercial AC contractor will check the thermostats first throughout the structure, then all the vents. If all seems in good working order, they’ll check the compressor and the refrigerant level next.
- Slow to start: If the compressor appears to be struggling to get started, it should be checked by a professional commercial AC contractor.
- Circuit breaker tripping: If the circuit breakers keep tripping when the air conditioner starts, this needs to be inspected by a professional commercial AC contractor.
In Closing
It is highly recommended to have a commercial AC contractor inspect the system annually. During the inspection, they will inspect the entire system and keep things clean and lubricated as needed. These annual inspections will keep the system in top condition and minimize any emergency service calls while extending the lifespan. If you need a commercial ac contractor in Orange, CA, please get in touch with us at (714) 464-6622. Call today!