Air conditioning units are the silent saviour inside so many commercial properties. When they’re operating correctly they’ll keep you, your team, and your customers at a comfortable temperature. Fresh, clean air is circulated throughout the building, and the best part is that you won’t even notice it.
Unfortunately, these same units become extremely noticeable when they’re not operating correctly. It’s easy to take air conditioning for granted, so when there’s a fault, it needs to be fixed quickly. In today’s article, we’re going to discuss some of the most common commercial air conditioning problems, and how to solve them. Whatever the issue, our talented KES Facilities technicians are always nearby and ready to help.
The Most Common Commercial Air Conditioning Problems
At best, your air conditioning problems will be a distraction. At worst, it could be failing to circulate air correctly and breaking the law in the process. There could even be fire hazards that you need to be aware of. These are the 7 most common commercial air conditioning issues, and how to solve them.
Incorrect Temperature Displayed
It’s crucial that your thermostat sensor detects the correct room temperature. That way, your air conditioning system will know how to regulate the temperature in the room. Detecting the wrong temperature will lead to inefficient operation and unnecessarily high energy bills.
If you suspect the thermostat is displaying the wrong temperature, the sensor could be malfunctioning. A new battery may do, but it could also need replacing. On some occasions, it’s a simple fix with a quick calibration. Otherwise, your thermostat and sensor are getting old and will need to be replaced. Remember: every mechanical part has a lifespan.
Lots of Noise
Most things – mechanical or otherwise – make a call for help when they’re in distress. Your commercial air conditioning system is no different, so don’t ignore any unusual noises.
Anything from a pop or hiss to – at worst – a bang, must be investigated immediately. Continuing to run your system when there’s obviously an issue could destroy much of the equipment.
The reason for this fault could be anything from a broken fan to leaks or debris. Power-down your unit and call our KES Facilities team as soon as you can so that we can investigate the issue.
Leaking Gas or Water
Fluids are an integral part of your commercial air conditioning system, and there’s a chance they can get into the wrong area. Leaking or dripping water will be irritating to begin with, but eventually, there will be no coolant left and your system won’t be able to provide cold air. Leaking gas is a much more serious issue.
Like air conditioning noise, leaks can be a complex repair. Our technicians will be able to quickly locate the source of the leak and ensure that your system returns to normal.
F-Gas Compliance
This isn’t a problem you’ll come across in the day-to-day running of your air conditioning unit. Instead, this is an administrative issue that keeps your system legal.
From January 2021, the UK “will regulate fluorinated greenhouse gas (F-Gas) and ozone-depleting substances.” As you may have already guessed, some older air conditioning units use F-Gas components as part of their coolant. Make sure that your air conditioning unit is up-to-date, modern, and free from any harmful (and illegal) substances.
Our engineers at KES Facilities have lots of experience with F-Gas regulations and compliance. If you need further advice, get in touch.
Dirty Air Conditioning Filter Problems
We’ve discussed a few complicated air conditioning problems in a row, but this one’s a little easier. Your air conditioning filter should be changed regularly to prevent it from becoming dirty. You’ll be able to sense poor air quality, and there may even be a bad smell from the blocked filter.
If you’ve become a little lazy with your monthly maintenance schedule and your filter hasn’t been changed for a while, you’ll also notice inconsistent and restricted airflow. In the worst case, your filter could be so blocked that it causes your system to overheat.
Be sure to change the filter regularly. That means that in the summer months, you need to remove and replace your filter monthly. Your system will thank you for it.
Electronics That Constantly Trip
Again, this air conditioning issue would be filed under the ‘irritating’ category rather than ‘explosively dangerous.’ If your system regularly trips, it’s doing so for a reason. Please don’t ignore this obvious sign of a problem.
The main cause of an air conditioning unit that constantly trips is something blocking the airflow. The blower then works overtime, the system overheats, and it trips. There may also be ventilation issues and blown fuses that need replaced.
Power-down your system and locate the blockage. If it’s difficult to locate, then get in touch with our KES Facilities team.
Potential Removal and Decommission
When all is said and done, your air conditioning unit may be too old and broken to justify repairing. Everything has a lifespan, and you need to remove your existing unit and install a new one. There’s nobody better to call than our engineers.
Contact KES Facilities Today
You should now be aware of the most common air conditioning faults and how to resolve them. If you’re ever unsure, then leave your repair to our team of professionals. From the simple fixes all the way to full decommissioning and installation, we’re able to help.
The best way to keep your system running efficiently and consistently is to make sure that it’s regularly inspected and maintained. Why not schedule regular check-ups with our KES team? We’re easy to contact and close to your area.
