If you are like most people, you have your car regularly serviced to change the oil, check the fluids, replace the air filter and look for any potential issues. Servicing your car keeps it operating efficiently, extends the life of the car, and keeps your family safe.
But what about the maintenance of systems that you don’t see every day, your HVAC system, for example? Do you forget about it because it’s out of sight? Chances are you do… until something goes wrong. In this post we are sharing four common symptoms that your HVAC system needs maintenance.
The 4 Most Common Symptoms of a Faulty HVAC System
Do your employees complain it does not get cool enough or warm enough, or that it’s noisy when it is operating (HVAC system) or notice unusual or bad odors permeating through the office? Or, do you have to deal with constant repairs because your unit is older than ten years?
Chances are that your HVAC system is due for replacement.
Watch out for the following symptoms:
- Unusual noises
- Staff complaining about discomfort
- Musty, rotting, or burning odor
- Spikes in power bills
Unusual noises
Old air conditioners often make disruptive noises, such as clicking, buzzing, humming, or clanking. For employees sensitive to noise, these sounds can be quite disturbing and influence the level of concentration, which impacts on their quality of work. Malfunctioning HVAC systems can also negatively impact meetings with visitors.
Staff complaining about discomfort
An influx of emails from employees complaining about bad air quality, humidity, insufficient cooling, odors, and disturbing noises is a warning sign that your HVAC system is faulty and needs service.
Musty (Rotting) or burning odor
If your staff reports revolting odors, chances are that your HVAC system has collected mold or mildew inside. It could also be that a small animal got caught in the system and is rotting away. And outdated refrigerants produce unpleasant smells as well.
Spikes in power bills
Unusual high electricity bills indicate that you are consuming a lot of energy. If your air conditioner is struggling to cool down the room temperature, it will draw more electricity than it should if it functions properly.
According to the “Fact Sheet” from The New Buildings Institute, best practices in building maintenance and operations increase energy savings from 10 to 20 percent. On the other hand, old systems can easily consume 30 to 60 percent more energy.
Save energy and money
Preventive maintenance of your HVAC system is crucial to avert potential health issues. A well-functioning HVAC system improves air quality and, thus, the wellbeing of your employees, and the immediate energy savings will impact on your return on investment.
A regular service schedule means lower maintenance costs and will extend the lifespan of your system compared to the high replacement costs that occur if you do not look after it.
Not sure whether your HVAC System needs maintenance?
Don’t worry! At Mark III, we have your back. Our service team will ensure that your mechanical equipment is always running smoothly. Schedule a service with our experts today!