Contact Info

Book Your Appointment

How Lehigh HVAC Replaced a 10-Ton Rooftop Unit at a Restaurant

How Lehigh HVAC Replaced a 10-Ton Rooftop Unit at a Restaurant

When a rooftop unit has been in service for over two decades, the risk of sudden failure is always there. Furthermore, it frequently shows issues, such as increased bills, unusual noise, foul odors, and performance issues. Being a business manager, no one wants to let the space go cold or hot without HVAC performing accurately, even for a few minutes. That’s where businesses need to plan rooftop unit replacement ahead, before the actual unit starts acting up.

Similar was the case with Flaming Hot Halal Grill, a fast food restaurant in Pennsylvania. They contacted Lehigh HVAC and shared their concerns. The team evaluated the project and completed a 10-ton rooftop unit replacement project.

See "Commercial RTU Replacement at Flaming Hot Halal Grill" for a deeper look into the case study.

Why the Restaurant Needed a Rooftop Unit Replacement

The older unit had been in service for over 25 years. Over time, its condition deteriorated and performance declined. After assessment, the Lehigh HVAC team found the following issues.

  • Frequent equipment breakdowns

  • Declining system efficiency

  • Inconsistent indoor temperature control

  • Faulty compressor concerns

  • Potential refrigerant leakage

  • Limited workspace for installation

Continuing to rely on the outdated unit could damage the customer experience. That’s why we recommended replacement at your earliest convenience. The proposal was accepted.

How Lehigh HVAC Approached the Replacement

Replacing a commercial rooftop unit involves multiple steps. The technicians need to plan old unit removal, new unit mounting, and connecting all the plumbing and electrical systems correctly. 

Here is what exactly went into the project.

1. Existing System Research

The technicians inspected the existing unit and its condition against the restaurant requirements. It helped the team evaluate and select the right equipment model, brand, size, and efficiency, according to the space symmetry and scope of the work.

2. Refrigerant Recovery

Before removing the unit, the technicians disconnected it and recovered the refrigerant. This helped prevent safety hazards and accidental risks.

3. Old Unit Removal

The old unit was removed safely to make room for the new installation. The technicians followed safety guidelines and used proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure the work followed professional HVAC standards.

4. New Unit Installation

Technicians mounted the new unit firmly and configured it under the supervision of a senior HVAC engineer. Based on the client's request, it was ensured that there was minimal interference with the dining experience, staff activities, and overall restaurant operations.

5. Testing and Commissioning

The technicians followed a quality control checklist to test if every component was working the right way. Only after it was verified that every part was connected correctly and found to be working as intended did the technician hand over the unit to the client.

The Results of Rooftop Unit Replacement

The restaurant replaced its HVAC system after 25 years. The new system exceeded the client’s expectations in both performance, efficiency, and reliability. Here is what they observed.

  • Reduction in monthly energy bills and operational costs

  • Consistent temperature and climate control throughout the space

  • Improved indoor air quality and ventilation for guests and staff

  • Substantial decrease in equipment noise and vibration levels

  • Minimization of system downtime and emergency repairs

  • Enhanced overall dining comfort and customer satisfaction

Book a Commercial HVAC Service with Confidence

Lehigh HVAC has been serving Pennsylvania for over a decade. We have serviced commercial units, replaced existing units, and provided reliable customer service whenever clients demanded. We take pride in delivering the best customer satisfaction, as proven by the verified reviews on our Google Business Profile. You can book us for commercial HVAC service with confidence, knowing your expensive belongings are in safe hands.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Most commercial RTU replacements are completed in a single day.

Commercial rooftop units generally last between 15 and 20 years.

No, professional technicians ensure minimal disturbance in everyday restaurant operations.

Frequent breakdowns and rising energy bills indicate replacement is needed.

Modern units are significantly more efficient and reduce monthly operational costs.