Air Handling Unit (AHU) Maintenance Peak Commercial HVAC Performance

Have you invested in premium-quality HVAC systems? However, you should pay attention to the Air Handling Unit, which circulates and conditions air throughout the building. Without proper maintenance, the system will lose its efficiency. The malfunctioning AHU will make the indoor air unhealthy.

Lack of AHU upkeep may cause the HVAC system to underperform. So, let us discuss how Air Handling Unit (AHU) maintenance benefits your commercial HVAC.

Key advantages of inspecting the AHU for your commercial HVAC

There are several reasons to hire technicians to maintain AHU for commercial heating/cooling units.

Prolong your HVAC system’s lifespan-

How will you make commercial HVAC long-lasting? The most significant strategy is to test and repair your AHU. Proper maintenance ensures-

More efficient functioning of the air handler
Even distribution of air
Reduced strain on other HVAC components
No need for costly repairs in the long run

Your commercial HVAC system will function optimally for several years.

Improve indoor comfort

Professionally maintained AHUs will help you maintain indoor comfort. Dirty components inside the AHU will affect the air circulation process. For this reason, the indoor temperature in your commercial building will become uncomfortable.

For instance, accumulated dirt on a blower motor will affect the AHU’s potential to distribute air. That’s why you may not experience the desired cooling or heating effects.

Proper maintenance will also prevent the formation of excess humidity.

Higher energy efficiency

A commercial AHU needs routine maintenance to reduce energy usage. A clean system is capable of moving air through ductwork more effectively. Thus, it needs minimal energy to maintain comfortable temperatures. You will save costs every month, as the HVAC system uses reduced energy for proper functioning.

Frequency of maintaining your air handling unit

How often should you inspect your commercial AHUs? The answer depends on various factors like-

Environmental conditions
Manufacturer guidelines
Your system requirements

Most AHUs need maintenance services twice every year. Thus, create a schedule for preventive maintenance and run the AHU optimally to increase its lifespan.

What does AHU maintenance service include?

Professionals create the AHU maintenance routine based on the system’s complexity and size. The most common services for proper upkeep are-

Coil cleaning- Coils in condensers and evaporators often become dirty. You may also experience a mouldy smell from the wet coils. Clean the coil to improve convection and reduce microbial growth.

Motor and fan inspection- Fans and their motors promote air circulation in your system. Qualified technicians will check for loose connections and overheating issues. They will also lubricate the motor bearings and fasteners.

Filter replacement- Filters are effective in protecting the system from air particles. Contaminated air filters restrict the airflow and cause stress to the system. So, during maintenance, you need to clean or replace filters.

Calibration- Modern AHUs have sensors that need to be calibrated. By recalibrating sensors, they maintain accuracy in temperature and pressure readings.

Damper and duct checkup- Dampers and ducts direct air, flowing through the AHU, to different parts of the building. Expert techniques ensure no leaks, which affect the airflow distribution.

Pulley and belt checks- The main role of belt is to pass power between the fan and the motor. Defective belts will lead to energy wastage and vibrations.

Performance testing- Thermal imaging and airflow measurements are some ways to test performance standards.

Cost of AHU maintenance

The average cost of upkeeping AHUs depends on different factors-

Number of AHUs- More AHUs in your commercial property will make the deal cost-saving.

Frequency of maintenance services- Some businesses hire technicians for quarterly servicing of the AHU.

Accessibility- It takes more effort and time to access units located in hard-to-reach areas. So, the service charge will be slightly higher.

You can contact your local technician to get a clear estimate for AHU maintenance.

Choose the most reliable professionals to inspect the AHU-

You need to hire qualified engineers to check your HVAC and air handler. The best professionals will provide a written report for every servicing. They will schedule the maintenance activity in a way that does not affect your business operations. Local professionals provide a timely response to your issues with the air handler.

Conclusion

HVAC systems in a commercial setting come with high-grade components, like an air handler. So, you have to prioritize AHU maintenance to ensure consistent airflow throughout your building. With upkeep, your HVAC may experience performance issues.

Create a routine for proactive care for your HVAC units. Your smart investment in this service will ensure reliable performance.