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Your commercial HVAC system works hard day and night. It fights with brutal winters and humid summers across Newark, Hamilton, Trenton, etc. Similar to other appliances, every HVAC system has a limited lifespan. Using it after that particular age can cost you more in energy bills and reduced comfort.
This blog is about educating commercial customers on when to buy a new HVAC system and book a commercial HVAC service.
Before we specifically explore scenarios that lead to HVAC replacement, let’s first explore the normal lifespans of commercial systems. Commercial HVAC systems generally have shorter lives than residential HVAC systems. This is because commercial units face more workload and burden. Here are the expected lifespans of various HVAC units as observed in New Jersey regions.
|
HVAC Equipment Type |
Expected Lifespan Range (Years) |
|
Rooftop Packaged Unit (RTU) |
12 – 18 |
|
Air-Cooled Chiller |
15 – 20 |
|
Water-Cooled Chiller |
20 – 30 |
|
Gas-Fired Furnace |
15 – 20 |
|
Cast Iron Boiler |
25 – 35 |
|
Steel Water-Tube Boiler |
20 – 30 |
|
Air-to-Air Heat Pump |
10 – 15 |
|
Water-to-Air Heat Pump |
15 – 19 |
|
Condensing Boiler |
12 – 18 |
Abrupt failures are almost rare for HVAC systems. Most of the time, systems show warning signs that there is something wrong with your system. Booking an AC repair service can save your system if the age is less than 15 years. If the age is approaching or exceeded by 15 years, you will need a new AC installation.
Here are some of those signs:
If you have to spend a lot on heating or cooling repairs, you should consider replacement. Normal HVAC repairs, such as mini split repairs, are not usually needed. If, for any reason, they are needed, the cost is much less, comparable to minor jobs. The high cost and frequent breakdowns give a signal that you now need mini split installation rather than repairs or maintenance.
Pro Tip: When you have to spend around 50% of a new HVAC system's cost on repairs, replacement is a good option.
If your system is approaching 15 years, it is time for a new one. Though it may look aesthetically good, the parts might have done their job. Working for more than a decade leads to irreversible wear and tear and component damage. Furthermore, the parts can’t just bear the strain of the increasing comfort demands due to the severe weather.
It is a direct sign that your system is not performing efficiently. An unexplained increase in energy bills is because your system consumes more energy than what is converted to produce heating or cooling comfort. The rest of the energy is wasted.
Many times, the energy bills are increased due to poor ductwork. If there are leaks and cracks in the ductwork, a lot of conditioned air escapes and is wasted. As a result, the system has to do extra work to compensate for the demands.
This is a clear sign that you now need a new HVAC system. Comfort is the most basic requirement of any space where human beings live. Especially in commercial facilities, comfort is essential for business growth, as neither customers nor employees prefer to stay in places without thermal stability. If comfort declines despite all components being up-to-date, you need a new HVAC system.
There are several other conditions when you need a new HVAC system for your commercial facility. For example, when you notice strange crackling or squealing sounds from the unit that arise more often. Similarly, there is a chance that you notice strange odors from the system. These conditions demand a new HVAC system if they can’t be fixed at all or need heavy investment for complete resolution of the primary cause.
Now, we know the scenarios that demand a new HVAC system. Let’s explore what you should consider while installing it. For example, if you have a commercial rooftop unit, these considerations can help you understand when rooftop unit repairs and maintenance make sense and when you need rooftop unit installation to beat climate effects.
Time of the Year: Plan new HVAC installation in spring or fall so you get maximum benefits. The demands are less during this season, so you can get quality service at a low price.
Energy Incentives: Look for rebates and energy incentives, such as those announced by PSE&G and JCP&L. These incentives can help you reduce the cost burden to a great extent.
Building Codes: Carefully understand the building codes, regulations, and HVAC permits for commercial facilities in your area. Choose the system that fulfills those requirements.
HVAC systems last for a specific period, after which they need to be replaced with new ones. Keeping a close eye on the warning signs can help you better plan, budget, and schedule services for a replacement. When you’re about to install a new system, consider factors such as rebates, incentives, code compliance, and the time of the season. It is important because HVAC service in NJ booked during the peak season might cost you extra money and service delays.
Feel free to contact Lehigh HVAC when you need expert assistance.
