A reliable commercial air conditioning unit is crucial to a comfortable and productive workspace for employees and customers. Unfortunately, similar to other mechanical devices, the air conditioning system is not totally immune. As time passes, this efficiency can decrease, meaning you will likely be paying more for your energy costs and needing repairs done more often. Paying attention to the indications when you should swap out your commercial air conditioning will prevent costly repairs and avoidable downtime while keeping your business cool and comfortable in all seasons.
Rising Energy Bills
An inefficient air conditioning unit will be easy to spot through a significant increase in energy bills. The older the unit gets, the more energy it needs to pump out heat at the desired temperature. Such inefficiency may arise due to degraded parts or an older technology. Comparisons of present energy prices to previous years routinely determine trends indicating a brand new device is warranted.
Frequent Repairs
The commercial air-conditioners that call for a replacement manufacturer experience frequent breakdowns. Regular repair can be an expensive venture, so it may make more sense in some cases to replace the unit entirely. If a system breaks down more than once or twice per year, it could be time for an upgrade to something more reliable. Additional warranties typically accompany newer models, giving you peace of mind while helping to minimize maintenance costs.
Inconsistent Cooling
If an air conditioner fails, you might notice that the temperature is inconsistent from one building area to another. If some rooms are freezing and others are warm, the system may be having trouble distributing air evenly. This can be caused by a bad compressor or problems with ductwork. An expert evaluation could assess whether repairs are feasible or if the carpet needs replacing entirely.
Strange Noises and Odors
Hearing strange noises or smelling odd odors from an A/C unit can cause alarm. Structural noises could suggest mechanical faults, while smells could indicate mold or mildew. In either case, neglecting the situation leads to compromised indoor air quality. A consultant can often help decide if these issues are correctable or if a new system is the best alternative.
Age of the System
The age of an air conditioning system highly affects its performance and efficiency. Many commercial units have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. A good rule of thee is that if a system is getting close to or older than that, it should be analyzed for its efficacy. Newer models almost always feature energy efficiency and comfort improvements that older systems do not.
Poor Air Quality
Older air conditioners can further pollute indoor air quality. If the system is not able to filter the air properly, more dust, allergens, and pollutants will circulate, resulting in health concerns for workers and clients. If you notice a worrisome dip in air quality, it may be time to check out newer models for filters and purifying purposes.
Inability to Meet Demands
The cooling needs of businesses can increase as any organization grows. A smaller space may have been fine with a certain size air conditioner, but once that space expands, so do the demands on the system. If a system cannot cope with the present needs, it is overburdened and likely to crash. Considering the business’s present and future requirements may help determine whether it makes sense to invest in a higher capacity unit.
Environmental Concerns
The refrigerants in older AC systems are more environmentally damaging. Latest models are built with eco-friendly options to lessen their footprint. Companies looking to become more eco-friendly should have new, environmentally-focused units replace them.
Conclusion
Knowing when to replace a commercial air conditioner is vital for a consistently comfortable and efficient business environment. High utility bills, constant repairs, poor cooling, and bad air quality suggest a system may need replacing. The decision can also be driven by looking at how old the unit is and how it may affect the environment. Purchasing a new air conditioning system will provide long-term benefits and make a much more enjoyable environment for everyone.
