10 Common HVAC Problems That Can Cause Big Problems

Heating and cooling large facilities are critical for facility managers who are concerned about making sure that their employees are comfortable and their equipment isn’t damaged from overheating or moisture. When you keep the HVAC unit in top-notch working condition, you are protecting your investment in every way. Unfortunately, large facilities pose specific heating and cooling challenges that can be difficult to overcome if they are not addressed quickly and efficiently. That is why we have created a one-stop-shop for you to reference. Here are ten common HVAC problems be aware of:

1. Larger Spaces Require Complex HVAC Solutions

HVAC systems are usually complicated solutions for climate control that require lots of ductwork, a compressor, a condensing unit, and other components. The size of the HVAC system scales up in correspondence with the size of the facility. The larger the space, the larger and more involved the HVAC design has to be. Larger HVAC systems also put a greater strain on the building’s infrastructure and operating costs.

2. Lack of Maintenance

HVAC maintenance is a crucial part of having an HVAC unit. Maintenance should be performed annually, and it should not be missed. These HVAC units are massive, and with that comes a massive price tag. Protect your investment with simple routine maintenance. Schedule it with your HVAC dealer, and have them put it on the calendar each year so it is not forgotten. By doing so you are able to avoid those big issues, and nip them in the bud when they are still in the infant stages. 

3. Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters can cause serious issues, and they are super easy to address. Why cause a problem when it only takes a few minutes to get them switched out? When your filters are dirty, they will actually block the airflow. Additionally, filters that are extremely dirty can cause your HVAC system to shut down. Plus, you will experience higher temps along with higher utility bills when you have not changed out those filters. 

4. Thermostat Not Working Correctly

The thermostat acts as the brains of your HVAC unit, and it can be complicated to set up. It is the one telling the unit what to do. So, if it is not working correctly, you want to address it quickly. Look closely at how you have set up the commands and make sure it is done correctly. Use the manual to ensure you have not skipped a step or forgotten to do something simple. If you still can not figure it out, check the batteries if your thermostat is not hardwired. Above all, if it continues to be an issue, call a service tech and get them out to look at it as soon as possible. 

5. Cold Air Doesn’t Mix Well

When you use air conditioning for cooling, it tends to dump a lot of cold air into a room all at once. Because cold air is heavier than warm air, it sinks down to the bottom of the room instead of mixing with the rest of the air in the space. This results in “cold pockets,” in certain areas where the room is colder than others, which is problematic if there are employees or sensitive machines in areas that aren’t being effectively cooled. This is where a large ceiling fan can help enhance floor-to-ceiling cooling and heating.

6. Lack of Airflow

Science tells us that the reason that fans make people feel cool is not because of the temperature in the room, but because they feel a breeze that helps increase the amount of sweat that evaporates from their bodies. The problem with HVAC systems in large areas is that they alone aren’t enough to create the breeze effect that people need to feel cool. Even if you run your HVAC system at a high level, in a larger facility there is a good chance that employees won’t feel the air from it because it doesn’t flow effectively.

7. Greater Susceptibility to Sick Building Syndrome

Air quality is more important than ever and large facilities such as warehouses, factories, and hangars have much more air in them than a normal office suite or residential area. Since it is more challenging to create airflow in these larger facilities, a large facility is more susceptible to sick building syndrome, or SBS. SBS can cause a negative impact on employee health, which can cause a drop in productivity or worse, put workers at risk of coming down with a serious illness.

8. Air Leaks in Building Envelope

The bigger the space, the more likely it is that the facility has leaks in its windows or dock doors. Since larger facilities often have high ceilings and walls, it’s more challenging for building managers to learn of these situations and take care of them. Large facilities also often have doors that open frequently for various purposes including receiving or sending out shipments. When buildings have air leaks, it makes it your HVAC system work harder to keep the air cooler or warmer than it is outside. This increases energy costs dramatically.

9. Leaks

Simply put, leas are not good. In a large HVAC unit, condensation is a normal problem to experience, however, large leaks are not. If you notice leaking of ANY type of fluid (even water), contact an expert right away. Leaks could mean there is a broken pipe or drain. It could also mean there is a clog somewhere within the unit. No matter the cause, address it. Do not wait. 

10. Questionable Noises from you HVAC  

A questionable noise is any noise that is out of the ordinary. Do not ignore these noises. It is a key sign that something is wrong. It could indicate mechanical problems or maintenance issues that need to be addressed. Furthermore, ignoring the noise could be dangerous and ultimately lead to full HVAC failure. Get on top of it right away by contacting an HVAC expert. They can hopefully fix it while it is a small issue or part replacement, instead of exacerbating it into a full motor or unit replacement. 

The Bottom Line

These challenges may be difficult to overcome in large spaces, but they are far from impossible to solve. Use the above tips to help you keep you HVAC in great working condition. That way you are protecting your investment. This includes the building, inventory, product, and most importantly, people. Avoid these common HVAC problems, and keep the air in your large facility temperate, healthy, and energy efficient.

Learn how MacroAir fans are a perfect partner to your HVAC unit. They will actually take much of the strain off your HVAC unit, and help to evenly distribute the air throughout the facility. Check out more by clicking the link below.

HVLS Fans and HVAC: A Perfect Partnership