As a commercial property owner or manager, keeping an eye on your commercial HVAC system probably isn’t at the top of your to-do list…until it breaks down and clients start complaining. In addition to sticking to a regular maintenance routine, knowing the signs of an impending breakdown can help you avert disaster. In today’s post, McMaster takes a look at the common signs that your HVAC system needs repairs.

Short cycling. When an HVAC system starts turning on and off too often, the culprit could be one or more factors, from clogged air filters to the wrong size of HVAC system being purchased and installed. This is also one of the telltale signs of refrigerant leaks, which is a problem that needs to be addressed by an HVAC professional as soon as possible. The lower the refrigerant level, the greater the workload of the HVAC system. Not addressing the leak could result in a premature breakdown.

Boiler leaks. If your building is heated with a hydronic heating system or boiler, keep an eye out for leaks near the radiators or around pipes. A leaky boiler will need to cycle more hot water throughout the system to meet the building’s heating requirements. It may also cause water damage to office equipment and adjacent utilities like air conditioning systems. Prioritize complaints raised by clients that fit the description, no matter how minor they may seem.

Unusually high utility bills. An HVAC system that isn’t in good working order will tend to have an increased workload because it has to meet the building’s heating or cooling requirements before it shuts off. A higher workload means higher fuel or electricity consumption, which can lead to a spike in your utility bills. As the property owner or manager, you should be familiar enough with the average monthly utility costs of the building to be able to tell if there’s an unusual spike.

Odd noises. Creaking and groaning noises in the HVAC system are usually the result of metal parts expanding due to changes in temperature. Depending on how old your building’s HVAC system is, thermal expansion and contraction of the metal parts can cause fatigue that can lead to warping and tears. A loud thud or booming noise can be caused by a misfiring burner. Other noises to watch out for include hissing and gurgling. If you’re hearing these noises — or if you notice any of the aforementioned signs — it’s best to call a commercial HVAC professional as soon as possible.

Call McMaster for Your HVAC Needs

McMaster is your leading provider of residential and commercial heating and air conditioning services. Give us a call at (949) 481-7995. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve communities in Orange County.