When your commercial HVAC system fails in Houston, it can be much more than just a minor inconvenience. These malfunctions can cause not only a hot, miserable work environment for staff and clients, but even a complete business shutdown that leads to lost money and productivity. Because of this, working with a professional building maintenance team like M.I.R. Enterprises for your commercial HVAC needs is essential for all Houston businesses.
In Houston, serious HVAC problems can happen in a matter of minutes, and your building can reach sweltering temperatures even quicker. These are the top five commercial HVAC problems that Houston business owners need to watch out for to save themselves time, money, and stress all year long.
Problem 1. Refrigerant Leaks and Low Levels in Commercial HVAC Systems
Refrigerant fluid powers every HVAC system, which gradually cools your building. When the level of refrigerant stored in your system dips significantly, your commercial HVAC system will be rendered useless. Because of Houston’s year-round heat, even a small dip in refrigerant levels due to a leak can lead to detrimental consequences. Not only will a leak cause your system to run less efficiently, but it can also contribute to significantly more expensive bills and an overworked system that can easily crash.
The primary warning signs of a refrigerant leak in your HVAC system include:
- Warm air from vents
- Hissing or bubbling sounds
- Ice on the evaporator coils:
- Noticeably higher energy bills
- Inconsistent cooling
Commercial HVAC units in Houston are constantly fighting to keep your building cool despite the soaring temperatures. The unique aspect of refrigerant leaks is that they can rapidly escalate into a much more significant issue for your unit. Because of this, quickly contacting your team of commercial HVAC maintenance experts at M.I.R. Enterprises is non-negotiable.
Problem 2: The Silent Threat of a Clogged HVAC Condensate Drain
Another key aspect of Houston’s environment that can have a large impact on your commercial HVAC system is the relentless humidity. This is because HVAC systems constantly work to pull moisture out of the air to keep your building cool and dry. When the humidity is as high as it is in Houston, this can easily throw your HVAC unit into overdrive and clog the condensation drain, which funnels out the moisture.
When this line gets clogged, a buildup of algae, sludge, and other debris can easily occur and lead to a myriad of serious building maintenance problems. Not only can it contribute to significant and costly water damage inside your building, but it can also cause a mold breeding ground to form. Leaving mold for too long can lead to health risks for your staff and guests, such as asthma attacks, respiratory illness, and severe allergy symptoms.
Clogged condensate drains are often called a “silent threat” to HVAC systems because they can be tricky to spot. Key things to look out for include a musty or mildew odor around your building. This can be a clear indicator of mold growth in the line or standing water and requires immediate attention. Another sign could be higher than normal indoor humidity due to your system being unable to remove moisture from the air.
For Houston building owners, this is a common, avoidable problem if you invest in consistent commercial HVAC maintenance through a dependable provider like M.I.R. Enterprises.
Problem 3: Dirty Air Filters and Coils Causing HVAC Malfunction
What makes commercial HVAC systems unique is the way their design requires them to breathe to perform well. Because of this, filters and coils are typically referred to as the unit’s breathing mechanism, since they work by filtering out the dust, debris, and pollen in your commercial building’s air supply. When filters and coils get clogged or aren’t periodically cleaned and replaced, they restrict the airflow moving through the HVAC system.
If this problem persists, it forces the blower motor to work harder to move the air. Over time, this can cause cooling inefficiency or frozen coils. This usually leads to symptoms like reduced airflow and increased amounts of dust in your building’s air. In Houston, this can be especially common during pollen season.
Problem 4: How Short Cycling Can Impact Your Commercial HVAC System
Short cycling means the HVAC system is repeatedly turning off and then on again. This can be one of the most detrimental problems that your commercial HVAC system in Houston can face. Within the HVAC system, the compressor is what causes the unit to start up and shut off. When this action happens too frequently, it can make the entire compressor fail – this is one of the most expensive repairs in the world of commercial HVAC systems. Compressors are such expensive components because they require significant skill to manufacture and install.
Aside from just hearing the system shut on and off repeatedly, another sign you can watch out for is your building beginning to have higher humidity and rising energy bills due to the increased power usage for starting up frequently.
Problem 5: Noticing Odd Smells or Noises From Your Commercial HVAC Unit?
In many cases, noticing weird odors or noises coming from your commercial HVAC unit can be a huge indicator that it needs servicing from a professional HVAC maintenance team like M.I.R. Enterprises. Some key sounds and smells to keep an eye (and nose) out for include:
- Grinding or scraping noises: Most often, grinding can indicate a worn-out motor bearing.
- Squealing: This typically signals a loose or failing fan belt that needs to be replaced.
- Banging or clanking: Hearing these sounds from your HVAC is a clear sign of a failing compressor that you must address rapidly.
- Burning smells: HVAC units require a solid electrical power source, so in most instances, a burning smell can point to a severe electrical issue that could put your entire commercial building in harm’s way.
- Musty smells: This points to a mold growth problem in your condensation line or a mildew source somewhere within the HVAC unit. Typically, standing water within the system causes it.
Understanding that signs your HVAC unit is failing run much deeper than just uncomfortable air temperature or humidity levels is vital for accurately maintaining your system. The best practice is to call M.I.R Enterprises for commercial HVAC maintenance the first time you begin to notice any of these unpleasant sounds or smells, to quickly resolve the issue before it escalates.
Don’t wait: Call Your Houston Commercial HVAC Service Provider Today
Now that you know what the top five common threats to a commercial HVAC system are for Houston building owners, you have the power. All of these can lead to costly replacements, uncomfortable work environments, and increased stress for you, your team, and your guests. By working with M.I.R Enterprises, we can help you stay on top of your commercial HVAC maintenance needs, giving you the ability to stay cool all year long, no matter what Houston’s weather throws your way. Contact us today to receive a free estimate for your commercial HVAC maintenance needs!
