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Author: Kevin

The Benefits of Regular HVAC Systems Inspections

Keeping your commercial building comfortable and safe requires more than just having an HVAC system – it means keeping it in excellent condition. Regular inspections are a straightforward way to ensure your heating and cooling systems work as they should, helping you avoid costly repairs, extend equipment life, and maintain a productive environment for everyone inside.

Below, Interstate AC Service breaks down why annual inspections are a must for your business.

Keep HVAC Costs in Check

No business wants to deal with surprise expenses, especially when it comes to heating and cooling. Over time, HVAC systems naturally lose performance due to dust buildup, clogged filters or worn parts. Without regular inspections, minor issues can snowball into major repairs – or worse, emergency breakdowns.

During an inspection, a trained technician will clean key components, tighten loose connections, and check for leaks or damage. By keeping your system running smoothly, inspections prevent overworked units that drive up monthly bills. Skipping maintenance might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it often leads to bigger expenses in the long run.

Stay Compliant and Safe

For commercial properties, safety is a non-negotiable.

HVAC systems can pose risks if they aren’t regularly inspected. Gas leaks, electrical issues, or poorly maintained systems not only jeopardize your building’s safety but can also put you at odds with local codes and regulations in Nashville.

Failing to meet these standards could result in fines, penalties, or even liability issues. Worse still, it puts your employees, customers, and assets at risk. Annual inspections ensure your HVAC systems meet compliance standards, keeping your business safe and legally sound.

Extend the Life of Your HVAC Equipment

Commercial HVAC systems represent a significant investment, so getting the most out of them is essential. While most systems are designed to last 10-20 years, neglecting regular inspections can shorten their lifespan.

Dust, debris and minor malfunctions force your HVAC units to work harder than they should, accelerating wear and tear. Routine checkups keep everything running smoothly, helping your system reach its full lifespan – and saving your business from premature replacement costs.

Improve the Indoor Air Quality

Your HVAC system plays a critical role in maintaining air quality throughout your building.

When filters are clogged or components are dirty, airborne particles like dust, allergens and pathogens circulate freely, causing a number of problems, including:

  • Asthma and allergy symptoms
  • Stale air and poor circulation
  • Mold and mildew growth
  • Excessive dust

If employees complain of constant sneezing or lack of fresh air, your system is likely due for a checkup. Schedule service and everyone will breathe easier and feel healthier.

Call Interstate AC Service for Expert Commercial HVAC Inspections

Ready to see the benefits of regular HVAC inspections for your business?

Interstate AC offers tailored maintenance plans, including our Cool Club program, to help keep your systems running smoothly, year after year. Call us today at (615) 802-COOL (2665) to schedule your next inspection or learn more about how we can support your commercial property.

Is It Helpful To Close Vents in Unoccupied Rooms?

As a business owner or facility manager, cutting costs while maintaining comfort is a constant priority. You may have heard the idea to close vents in unused rooms in order to reduce energy bills… but does this method really work in commercial buildings?

The short answer: no. In fact, closing vents could harm the HVAC system and increase costs over time. Interstate AC Service explains why this common myth doesn’t work and offers better alternatives for energy savings in your commercial space.

Why Closing Vents Can Hurt Your Business

Commercial HVAC systems are designed to handle a specific airflow, based on the size and layout of your building. Closing vents in unoccupied rooms disrupts this balance, creating unnecessary pressure in the ductwork. This added strain forces your system to work harder, which increases energy consumption and accelerates wear and tear on components.

For example, if vents are close in offices, warehouses, or conference rooms, the HVAC system continues to pull in the same volume of air, but now it has fewer outlets to release it.

Over time, this imbalance can lead to serious issues, including:

  • Cracked Ductwork: Increased pressure can cause leaks, reducing efficiency and creating air quality problems.
  • Higher Utility Bills: Paradoxically, your system works harder and uses more energy when vents are closed.
  • Mold Growth: Condensation builds up in improperly ventilated areas, leading to mold and mildew.
  • Damaged Components: Overworked motors, heat exchangers and evaporator coils can fail prematurely, resulting in expensive repairs.

Rather than saving money, closing vents increases maintenance costs and shortens the lifespan of your HVAC equipment – a lose-lose for your business.

Alternatives: Smarter Energy-Saving Strategies

If closing vents isn’t the answer, what can you do to reduce heating and cooling costs in your commercial building? Here are a few proven strategies that deliver:

  • Schedule professional inspections and tune-ups at least once a year. A clean, well-maintained system runs more efficiently, lowering energy costs and avoiding expensive repairs.
  • Modern commercial HVAC systems can be upgraded with zoning capabilities, allowing you to adjust temperatures independently in different areas based on occupancy.
  • Programmable thermostats allow you to set specific temperatures for certain hours, ensuring energy isn’t wasted when spaces are unoccupied.
  • Check windows, doors and walls for drafts or leaks, which force your system to overcompensate.
  • Unplug unused office equipment, turn off lights in empty rooms, and use ceiling fans to improve airflow. Small changes add up to significant savings.

By adopting these habits, your business space can improve energy use without risking HVAC damage or system downtime.

Partner With Interstate AC Service for Expert Care

So, is it helpful to close vents in unoccupied rooms? No. While it may sound like a simple fix, it creates more problems than solutions for your commercial HVAC system. Instead, let Interstate AC help you implement smarter energy-saving measures tailored to your building’s needs.

Our technicians specialize in commercial HVAC systems, offering maintenance, repairs and upgrades designed to reduce costs and maximize comfort. Call us today at (615) 802-COOL (2665) to schedule a consultation or request a free estimate.

Frozen Pipes in Commercial Plumbing: Causes, Prevention and Solutions

Winter poses significant challenges for commercial properties, particularly concerning plumbing systems. Unprepared pipes can freeze, leading to substantial operational disruptions and costly damage. The consequences of frozen pipes can be severe, potentially resulting in business interruptions, extensive property damage, and costly repairs that can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the extent of the damage.

In January 2024, an unprecedented cold front struck Nashville, severely impacting the commercial and industrial plumbing infrastructure across middle Tennessee. The sudden drop in temperatures resulted in numerous burst pipes and structural emergencies, causing significant disruption for businesses. This unexpected weather event not only led to costly repairs but also resulted in substantial downtime, hindering productivity and operations in various commercial buildings.

Understanding why pipes freeze and implementing preventative measures is crucial for commercial property managers to maintain business continuity going into the upcoming winter season.

WHAT EVERY PROPERTY MANAGER SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THEIR COMMERCIAL PLUMBING SYSTEM THIS WINTER

UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES OF FROZEN PIPES IN COMMERCIAL SETTINGS

In commercial plumbing, frozen pipes can result from a variety of technical factors:

  • Temperature Extremes: Rapid drops in temperature, particularly in large facilities with extensive piping systems, can lead to pressure imbalances that result in freezing. A rapid temperature drop is defined as a 20-degree change occurring within a few hours. In wintertime, large warehouses and industrial spaces can cool much more quickly than you might anticipate.
  • Insufficient Pipe Insulation: Inadequate insulation around exposed pipes, especially those in unconditioned spaces (like basements, maintenance rooms, or ceiling cavities), increases vulnerability.
  • Thermostat Management: Maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the building is vital, especially infrequently used areas. Setting the thermostat below 55°F in unoccupied areas can cause significant freezing risks, particularly in buildings with complex layouts.
  • Aging Infrastructure: Older plumbing systems with corroded pipes or existing microfractures are at a higher risk of freezing. Regular maintenance assessments and updates to the plumbing infrastructure from a licensed commercial plumber can mitigate these risks.

IDENTIFYING FROZEN PIPES AS A PROPERTY MANAGER

Recognizing frozen pipes quickly can prevent extensive damage:

  • Flow Measurement: Monitor water flow rates. A sudden drop in flow pressure, particularly during freezing temperatures, can indicate a blockage. Don’t forget to check all restrooms and kitchen areas at your facility.
  • Visual Inspection: Regularly check exposed pipes for frost buildup, which is a clear indicator of freezing conditions.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROTOCOLS FOR FROZEN OR BURST PIPES

In the event of frozen pipes in your industrial or commercial building, prompt action is crucial:

  1. Open Faucets: Immediately open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe to relieve pressure and allow water to flow when it begins to thaw.
  2. Controlled Thawing: Utilize electric heat tape or a controlled heating device to gradually thaw frozen pipes. Avoid open flames or excessive heat that could cause further damage.
  3. Emergency Shut-Off: Make sure you know where your building’s water supply emergency shut off is. If a pipe bursts, immediately shut off the main water supply and power to the affected areas to minimize damage. Note, sometimes there is a shut off by floor, allowing you to keep some areas of the building operational while dealing with a localized problem.
  4. Engage Emergency Services: Contact Interstate AC for immediate repair services from a licensed commercial plumbing contractor and to assess any potential damage to the system.

WHEN TO CALL THE EXPERTS

When something goes wrong in your building, you want the very best on the job. Commercial plumbing systems often involve larger and more complex systems than your average residential home. A typical commercial plumbing system must accommodate higher water usage, multiple fixtures, and extensive piping networks, and proper maintenance on those systems requires a specialized technician.

HOW CERTIFIED COMMERCIAL PLUMBERS IDENTIFY FROZEN PIPES

Performing routine winter maintenance can help prevent significant costs and office disruptions for our customers:

  • Flow Measurement: Commercial plumbers monitor flow rate through flow meters, pressure gauges, and other technical equipment.
  • Acoustic Detection: Our plumbers can utilize acoustic monitoring equipment to identify gurgling or unusual sounds within the plumbing system, which can signal ice blockages.
  • Thermal Imaging: We can employ thermal imaging cameras to detect temperature discrepancies along piping. This technology can identify areas of potential freezing before they lead to significant issues.
  • Visual Inspection: Sometimes the best way to tell if a pipe is frozen, is a simple visual inspection!

Before winter hits, schedule routine assessments with Interstate AC’s commercial plumbing experts to identify vulnerabilities in your system and address them proactively. Interstate AC’s plumbing maintenance customers receive a technical maintenance inspection that is equipped to prepare even the most complex systems for Nashville’s unpredictable winters.

ADVANCED PREVENTION STRATEGIES FOR COMMERCIAL PLUMBING

Implementing a comprehensive prevention strategy is essential for safeguarding your plumbing systems:

  1. Enhanced Insulation Techniques: High-performance insulation materials, such as closed-cell foam, fiberglass wrap, or commercial heat tape, can improve thermal resistance around vulnerable pipes.
  2. Pipe Routing Considerations: We evaluate the layout of a plumbing system to ensure that pipes are routed away from external walls and other cold zones whenever possible to minimize exposure to freezing temperatures.
  3. Building Envelope Integrity: Our plumbers conduct a thorough inspection of the building envelope. Seal cracks and gaps using high-quality caulk or weatherstripping to prevent cold air infiltration that can affect pipe temperatures.
  4. Automated Temperature Monitoring: Implement a building automation system (BAS) that includes temperature sensors throughout the facility. This allows for real-time monitoring and alerts if temperatures drop to critical levels.
  5. Draining Inactive Systems: For irrigation systems or unused plumbing lines, we ensure they are drained and properly shut off during winter months to prevent standing water from freezing in the winter.
  6. Pressure Relief Protocols: Install pressure relief valves on vulnerable lines to mitigate the risk of bursting due to ice blockages.

ENGAGE THE EXPERTS FOR WINTER PLUMBING PREPAREDNESS IN NASHVILLE

For comprehensive winterization strategies and emergency plumbing services, our team at Interstate AC specializes in commercial plumbing solutions designed to keep your operations running smoothly. Proudly serving the Nashville area, we understand the unique demands of local businesses and are equipped to provide tailored solutions that ensure your plumbing system withstands the winter chill.

Contact us at 615-802-2665 today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can help protect your business from winter-related plumbing issues.

The Role of HVAC in Indoor Air Quality Management

Have you noticed an increase in your employees’ allergies or sick days? If so, you’ll benefit from understanding how to improve air quality in commercial buildings. At Interstate AC, we’ve served the community for over 20 years and can efficiently tackle jobs of any complexity.

What Is Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)?

Indoor air quality includes the temperature, airflow, humidity levels, and pollutants in a building’s air. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates Americans spend roughly 87% of their time indoors. Consequently, indoor air often affects a person’s health more than outdoor air.

Indoor air pollution affects your employees’ health, satisfaction, and productivity. From reducing volatile organic compounds to regulating humidity, IAQ remains an important aspect of occupational safety.

Signs Your Company Has Poor Air Quality

How do you know you should improve air quality in commercial buildings?

Increased Health Issues

The most long-term effects of poor air filtration in a commercial office building include persistent health problems. The least severe consequences include a rise in allergy symptoms like a runny nose, scratchy throat, and itchy eyes. However, even minor symptoms can significantly reduce how efficiently your employees work.

Prolonged exposure to low-quality building air can have serious consequences for your workforce. A polluted indoor environment can produce the following health complications:

  • Coughing, wheezing, and trouble breathing
  • An increase in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks
  • A burning sensation in the chest
  • Eye and throat irritation
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema
  • An increased vulnerability to breast or lung cancer
  • An enhanced risk of heart attack

Uncomfortable Work Conditions

Employees thrive in office buildings with good indoor air quality. If the air quality is poor, your workers may notice a spike in relative humidity. When the level surpasses 60%, it can feel like working in a tropical jungle.

When an HVAC system doesn’t perform well, it may not have adequate air movement, which can cause your employees to feel too hot or cold. Uncomfortable indoor environments can also make it difficult for workers to concentrate.

Poor HVAC Equipment and Ventilation System Performance

HVAC systems that don’t perform well often lead to a poor indoor environment. A system may operate poorly because of dirt buildup or blocked air vents. Dirt and dust can contain indoor air contaminants, making maintaining indoor air quality impossible. When a commercial building has subpar HVAC systems, health complications aren’t far behind.

Unpleasant Smells

While not all indoor air pollutants (like carbon monoxide) create foul smells, mold, and other biological contaminants often do. These smells can distract from an office environment and indicate the presence of air pollution that can spread health complications throughout a commercial building.

How To Improve Indoor Air Quality in Commercial Buildings

Do you want to improve office air quality? Growing office plants and regularly dusting your office furniture can help, but don’t overlook the important role heating, cooling, and ductwork play in maintaining good indoor air quality.

Clean Your Air Ducts

If you want to improve air quality in commercial buildings, clean your air ducts every three to five years. If you notice the signs you have poor air in your office building, you should schedule duct cleaning more frequently. If you live in an area with poor outdoor air quality, you should also consider scheduling cleaning more often.

When dust builds up in your ducts or vents, exhaust fans blow it throughout your building. Investing in clean ductwork can help you improve indoor air quality throughout your building.

Change Your Air Filters

Improving indoor air quality requires regularly changing your system’s air filters. The air filter helps mitigate the effects of poor outdoor air quality by trapping dust and particulates before they enter your ductwork.

You can find air filters that only require cleaning or changing every three months, but you should change most filters every 30 days. Certain factors can increase how frequently you should change your filter, including:

  • Employees who smoke near the building
  • Allowing pets on the premises
  • Living in a polluted area
  • Not dusting or vacuuming frequently

Schedule Annual Furnace and Air Conditioning Maintenance

Routine HVAC maintenance plays an important role in maintaining indoor air quality. By scheduling maintenance for every HVAC device at least once a year, you ensure it continues to regulate humidity, maintain great airflow, and filter pollutants. This also saves you money in the long term by keeping your energy bills low, reducing the frequency of repairs, and extending the life of your device.

Install Filtration Systems

The Environmental Protection Agency identifies building-wide systems like an air purifier or indoor air quality sensors as one of the best ways to maintain adequate air quality. While your air conditioning and furnace play a pivotal role, the devices can’t handle all the purification you need.

Call Interstate AC To Improve the Quality of Your Indoor Air

Are you a building manager who wants to improve air quality in commercial buildings? Reach out to Interstate AC.

Whether you want us to install an air purifier or need help controlling relative humidity, you’ll love our dedication to customer satisfaction. Building managers love us because we make HVAC repairs, installation, and maintenance stress-free.

Schedule service by calling 615-802-COOL (2665).


Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have questions about why a building owner should improve the air quality in an office space, consider the answers to the topic’s most common questions we’ve provided below.

Does Poor Indoor Air Quality Violate OSHA Standards?

Poor indoor air quality can violate the Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards if the particulate matter reaches 500 parts per million. OSHA and the Environmental Protection Agency require office buildings to maintain these standards.

What Are the Major Indoor Pollutants?

Major indoor pollutants include secondhand smoke, building materials like asbestos, gaseous pollutants from gas stoves, and particulate matter like dust mites.

Why Should Building Management Improve Air Quality in Commercial Buildings?

Building management should improve air quality in commercial buildings to keep workers healthy, satisfied, and productive.

How To Maximize Energy Efficiency in Your Commercial HVAC System

Forward-thinking business owners see how valuable it is to improve energy efficiency in building infrastructure, but where do they start when assessing their organization’s energy usage? Saving energy can be a monumental task, but think of it as baby steps to achieve an energy-efficient building. If you’re willing to steadily reach new goals each year, each of those energy savings will add up – including in your commercial HVAC system.

Below, Interstate AC outlines ways to reduce energy consumption in your commercial property.

Energy-Efficient Buildings Use Insulation for Consistent HVAC Cost Savings

While not everyone can tear down and rebuild existing buildings, you can use less energy with some environmental design enhancements. First, seal hidden air leaks that allow conditioned air to escape your building. These small openings and drafts can seriously increase your power bill.

Large industrial plants are particularly susceptible to forgotten drafty areas because of the vast square footage. Installing energy-efficient windows and quality insulation helps. Any energy-efficient building keeps warmed or cooled air safely indoors.

A Conscious Business Owner Pays HVAC Maintenance Costs for Lower Energy Consumption

Feeling overwhelmed by heating and cooling costs? Some business owners might take that as an excuse to skimp on annual maintenance, but putting off tune-ups for just a few years instantly makes your commercial building less energy-efficient. Filter changes, maintenance sessions, and prompt HVAC fixes also lower your building’s energy use while ensuring healthier indoor air quality.

After all, well-oiled, regularly serviced HVAC equipment is the key to an energy-efficient building. Tactics like space heating to enhance climate control work, too.

An Energy-Efficient Building Integrates Renewable Energy Sources to Lower Its Daily Energy Usage

Have you thought about harnessing the sun’s energy and other natural resources in your quest for commercial energy savings? The industrial sector reaps significant benefits from renewable energy choices while helping the earth.

Why not consider solar panels for a more energy-efficient building with lower carbon emissions, particularly if your factory or warehouse has a flat roof?

Commercial Building Owners Improve Energy Efficiency in Building HVAC Infrastructure With More Efficient Equipment

Pioneering green buildings starts by phasing out incandescent bulbs in favor of light bulbs that conserve more energy. The Department of Energy confirms that traditional electrical light can increase a building’s energy bills by up to 30%. Alternatives like LED lighting, on the other hand, can reduce energy use by a whopping 75%.

Save money, and spring for energy-efficient, sustainable lighting designs across all your commercial buildings!

Tips To Outfit Commercial Buildings With Quality, Modern Heating and Cooling Systems

Is your commercial heating and cooling system relentlessly wearing down your allocated repair budget? Newer, more energy-efficient systems guzzle fewer resources and run much better than old HVACs.

Your business’s outdated mechanical systems depend on a constant supply of natural gas or electricity to cool and heat well, and this process emits carbon dioxide. This gas traps more heat in the earth’s atmosphere, and that means your business is directly contributing to the Greenhouse Effect.

Stay calm; learning to improve energy efficiency in building-related processes helps. For example, an energy-efficient building harnesses improvements like:

  • Solid ductwork: Brittle, aging ducts puncture and fracture. You might not find out about these tiny openings for months or years after they’ve let out conditioned air that should be going through your building’s vents.
  • Smart thermostats: Control the temperature from any location on-site or away from the office. That way, the thermostat setting keeps everyone on-site comfortable without running up the bills.
  • Newer equipment: How old is your current system? Commercial HVACs can last 15 to 20 years with diligent maintenance and lessen your business’s carbon footprint. More energy-efficient equipment choices include heat pumps and ductless systems, so be sure to ask about them.

Modern energy recovery ventilation enhancements also help to balance air input and output, optimizing energy usage and air quality.

Where Should You Begin in Your Building or HVAC?

An energy-efficient building takes time. Start with an energy audit, which is like a blueprint that reveals:

  • Utility bill-spiking factors
  • Power-guzzling building areas or appliances
  • Where energy changes are possible, like new heating and cooling equipment

Strategize step-by-step changes to your building using your audit results as a reference. If that assessment recommends new commercial HVAC equipment, turn to Interstate AC for business-focused HVAC expertise.

Interstate AC Can Install the HVAC Industry’s Most Cost-Effective Technologies in Your Business

Our technicians do more than install basic heating and cooling systems or energy-efficient lighting – we’re here to help your business save energy costs, money, and the earth. When you enhance your building’s energy efficiency, you show your employees, customers, and investors that you care about the future you’re all building.

Your commercial venture can always improve energy efficiency in building strategies for a brighter tomorrow. Start maximizing energy savings today – call 615-802-COOL (2665) to schedule a consultation with the Interstate AC team!


FAQs

Here’s what our commercial clients ask about maximizing a building’s efficiency.

Do HVAC Systems Create Greenhouse Gas Emissions?

Yes, HVAC systems create greenhouse gas emissions, especially older models powered by natural gas created from fossil fuels. Reduced energy consumption brings related energy costs in line, thanks to an HVAC upgrade.

How Much Money Do Commercial Buildings Save With HVAC Energy Performance Improvements?

The Department of Energy reports that energy-efficient commercial buildings can save up to 30% (because inefficient buildings waste up to 30% of their energy intake).

What Are Small Things My Business Can Do to Combat Climate Change?

Small things your business can do to combat climate change include:

  • Audit energy habits
  • Calculate your business’s carbon footprint
  • Reduce your building’s monthly energy consumption
  • Systematically install energy-efficient lighting

Also, consider utilizing renewable energy sources.

When You Improve Building Energy Efficiency, Are There Environmental Benefits?

Yes, when you improve energy efficiency in building-related processes, you facilitate energy and environmental design changes that benefit the world. For instance, curbing energy use translates to:

  • Less oil extraction
  • Eased electrical demands
  • The least possible carbon output for your facility

Commercial HVAC equipment that needs less energy also elevates these efforts – often considerably, if you consider the daily gains.

The Importance of Preventative HVAC Maintenance for Commercial Buildings

Commercial and industrial properties need reliable HVAC systems that can keep the space comfortable for workers year-round. To avoid equipment failure, property owners must prioritize regular HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings so that their heating and cooling systems work properly. What exactly does preventative maintenance entail and why is it so important?

Discover the answers in this guide from the experts at Interstate AC. We specialize in commercial HVAC services and help facility managers like you keep a well-maintained HVAC system.

Commercial HVAC Systems Can Operate More Efficiently

If you continuously run the heating or air conditioning system in your commercial space without performing any type of system maintenance tasks, you’ll likely notice your energy estimates on the rise. Regular commercial HVAC maintenance includes changing air filters and cleaning heating and air conditioning components. As dirt and debris accumulate on these components, the system must work harder to achieve the temperature on the thermostat settings.

Investing in HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings leads to reduced operational costs and high energy efficiency since the heat pump, air conditioner, or heating system can push climate-controlled air through ventilation systems without any clogged debris in the following areas:

  • Blower components
  • Air filters
  • Electrical connections
  • Evaporator and condenser coils
  • Heating elements like furnace burners

Say “goodbye” to unnecessary energy consumption and enjoy cost savings when you change air filters regularly and schedule routine maintenance for your building’s HVAC system.

You’ll Notice Improved System Performance

An HVAC unit works around the clock to keep a commercial building comfortable for everyone inside. Not only will regular preventive maintenance keep commercial HVAC systems working at a higher energy efficiency level but it will reduce the need for costly repairs.

HVAC systems go through a lot of wear and tear over time which can eventually lead to system failure. Prevent this from happening by having a licensed technician inspect your building’s equipment and complete a regular maintenance checklist, which includes the following tasks:

  • Replace air filters
  • Tighten electrical connections
  • Test heating components
  • Calibrate the thermostat
  • Check variable refrigerant volume
  • Clean the flue system
  • Test the function of multiple indoor units and the main outdoor unit

You shouldn’t experience any issues during system operation and will ultimately save money on emergency HVAC repair or replacement services.

Maintenance Extends HVAC Equipment Life Expectancies

No one should ignore HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings regardless of the equipment used or its average lifespan. Regular maintenance keeps the equipment working properly so you can get the most out of your investment.

Say you use a heat pump system that offers both heating and cooling capabilities. The unit itself may promise up to 20 years of use but unless you keep up with preventive maintenance, it may fail long before reaching that milestone due to issues like variable refrigerant flow, faulty electrical components, and broken compressors. Protect your commercial HVAC system long-term by scheduling year tune-up services.

Experience Improvements in Indoor Air Quality

Another major benefit of commercial HVAC maintenance involves maintaining indoor air quality and proper airflow. Imagine having a clogged air filter that restricts airflow from your HVAC system to the rest of the building. The buildup of dirt and allergens can lead to the following air quality problems:

  • Circulation of dust, pollen, and other allergens
  • Uncomfortable humidity levels
  • Potential mold and mildew growth

You should change your system’s air filter every three months but rely on an expert to handle other tasks on the maintenance checklist, such as cleaning dirty coils. Technicians will also check the gas pressure valve and heat exchanger to ensure that no harmful fumes escape from the heater and endanger the building’s occupants.

All of these efforts combine to leave your building with better indoor air quality so workers and customers feel nothing but comfort once they step inside.

Customize Maintenance Projects for a Building’s Needs

It’s no secret that HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings is a worthwhile investment for any business owner. However, certain properties depend on this service for their continued success. Keeping the space comfortable for everyone inside and cutting energy costs are common goals for business owners and property managers, but safe air and system reliability prove essential for certain industries.

For example, if an industrial building houses a food processing plant, the workers must prioritize product safety for consumers. Having an influx of airborne contaminants stemming from the HVAC system creates a challenge for the industry and highlights the need for a focus on air quality solutions through commercial HVAC tune-ups. Buildings like hospitals also need to focus on clean air circulation as well as even heating and cooling all year long for the safety of sick and vulnerable patients.

Technicians like the team at Interstate AC offer customized solutions for any commercial property owner. Whether you need professionals to service your traditional or multi-split system, you’ll find your answer by trusting an expert.

Choose Interstate AC for Commercial HVAC Maintenance Services

Given the many benefits of HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings, why wait any longer to schedule an appointment for preventive maintenance? Reach out to Interstate AC for proper maintenance as well as commercial HVAC repairs and installation services. Call 615-802-COOL (2665) to request an estimate.


Frequently Asked Questions

When Should You Schedule Maintenance for a Commercial HVAC System?

Schedule HVAC system maintenance twice a year. Experts recommend spring maintenance schedules for cooling components and heating tune-up services each fall.

Can You Maintain a Commercial HVAC System Yourself?

No, you should let a professional technician perform HVAC system maintenance for optimum safety and accuracy.

How Long Do All Commercial HVAC Maintenance Tasks Take To Complete?

HVAC maintenance for commercial buildings can take several hours to complete depending on the complexity of the HVAC system and its condition. Well-maintained HVAC systems may need less than two hours for a tune-up while units that need extensive cleaning or repairs may need a full day of servicing.

Tank vs. Tankless Water Heaters for Businesses

Every business space requires hot domestic water year-round – especially in Nashville, where winter lows dip to the low 30s. However, installing any domestic water heater isn’t enough as different unit types satisfy unique needs.

Below, our team at Interstate AC Service explains both tank and tankless water heaters, and which best satisfies YOUR company’s needs.

What Is the Difference Between Tank and Tankless Heaters?

Traditional tank heaters have insulated tanks that store and heat between 30 and 50 gallons of water. While the electric version is less expensive to install, gas uses 50% less energy.

Both contain a pipe at the top of the tank that sends domestic water to all water appliances, from sinks and showers to dishwashers and washing machines.

Unlike traditional units, tankless water heaters do not heat water 24/7 to ensure it’s always available. Instead, they heat on demand since they don’t have a tank for storing hot water. This means the high-powered burners send heat to the water in the heat exchanger in real time for your fixtures.

Which Domestic Water Heater Is Best for Your Business?

Not all businesses use the same amount of water. While an office building or diner only uses hot domestic water for sinks and kitchens, laundromats and hotels use more to run dozens of washers, showers, and other appliances.

Determine how much water you need daily to decide between tank vs. tankless water heaters.

Heating Capacity

According to the Department of Energy, tankless or continuous-flow heaters only heat two to five gallons of water per minute. That means when running multiple appliances simultaneously, you may run out of hot water – even with a high tankless water recovery rate.

If your business has a high hot domestic water demand, consider a tank heater with a storage capacity of between 400 and 500 gallons.

Energy Efficiency

While on-demand heating may not provide as much water, its lack of storage makes it more energy efficient.

Tank heaters have a heating element at the tank’s base that constantly heats, so when the surrounding water heats, that water floats to the top and the cooler water sinks lower for heating (even when not in use). Tankless heaters only heat when you turn on the water, so they conserve energy.

Cost-Effectiveness

When considering a tankless water heater, remember that because they heat more efficiently, they’re more cost effective in the long run. They also last 20 to 30 years, twice as long as their tank counterparts, so you’ll need fewer replacements, making them more economical.

Tank water heaters are simpler by design, meaning they have a cheaper upfront cost with a lower purchase and installation fee. You also pay less for maintenance and repairs, which is ideal for business owners on a budget.

The Only Stop on the Interstate for Quality Heating!

Whether you need to decide between a tank versus tankless water heaters, or want to schedule services, contact Interstate AC Service in Nashville, TN. Our five-star team will offer prompt and courteous five-star assistance today!

Call us at (615) 802-COOL to learn more.

How To Choose the Right HVAC System for a Large Space

Maintaining a commercial building is complex, and business owners often need professional advice on how to choose the right HVAC systems for a large space.

Although every project is different, maximizing comfort, energy efficiency, and reliability for your business means looking at multiple elements.

Size Matters

The unit size is the most important consideration when selecting a cooling and heating system for your commercial space, but bigger isn’t always better.

In addition to considering the square footage of the space when trying to choose the right HVAC system for a large space, evaluate the layout, insulation, ceiling height, sun exposure, and number of people working in the space all influence the ideal unit size.

To calculate the required cooling capacity in BTUs (British thermal units), divide the square footage by 400, then multiply by 12,000 to get the minimum cooling capacity; you’ll need to add additional capacity for factors like windows, high ceilings, and workers.

Additional Factors to Consider

Climate

Not all HVAC systems work the same in every environment. Extreme temperatures in either direction can affect system efficiency and capacity.

Indoor Air Quality Needs

HVAC directly influences indoor air quality, including humidity, ventilation, and air filtration, so you need to choose a system that creates a comfortable and healthy working environment.

Energy Efficiency

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) requirements apply to commercial systems. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system and the less it will cost to run.

Regulations

In addition to SEER ratings, your HVAC system must comply with applicable government regulations.

Get Help With Commercial HVAC

When you need professional, experienced insights into how to choose the right HVAC system for a large space, get in touch with Interstate AC at (615) 802-COOL (2665).

We’re the most trusted commercial HVAC experts in Middle Tennessee and have the expertise to ensure your business stays comfortable year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens If the HVAC System is Oversized?

An oversized HVAC system will use more energy, but won’t provide the most reliable or even cooling. Excess capacity will cause the unit to short-cycle and turn off before it fully warms or cools the space, resulting in uncomfortable temperatures and excess humidity.

How Long Does a Commercial HVAC System Last?

The average system lasts 12 to 15 years when you choose the right HVAC system for a large space and invest in regular maintenance.

What Are the Most Common Air Conditioning Systems Used in Large Buildings?

Central air conditioning is the most common system for large buildings. Very large industrial buildings typically use chillers, which distribute cooled water or liquids via a series of coils throughout the building.

Why Your AC Isn’t Cooling Your Business Properly

When your air conditioner fails to cool your business space during the hot and humid months, it can be incredibly frustrating – not to mention the impact it can have on overall comfort and productivity.

Here are seven common reasons why your AC might not be cooling your business like it should.

1. Frozen Evaporator Coil

A frozen evaporator coil is a frequent issue that directly affects the performance of a commercial property’s AC unit. The coil is designed to draw heat and moisture from indoor air when working correctly, but when it freezes, it means there may be a problem such as:

  • Dirty air filters
  • Malfunctioning fans
  • Leaking refrigerant

Regular maintenance checks can prevent these issues from becoming worse and ensure that the HVAC system runs smoothly.

2. Clogged Air Filters

Air filters can quickly become clogged due to the high activity in a commercial building.

A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your AC unit to work harder and less efficiently. Make sure that air filters are checked and replaced regularly to maintain top performance.

3. Refrigerant Leak

An AC with low refrigerant may run – but it won’t properly cool circulated air.

Refrigerant is necessary to absorb heat from indoor air; when levels are low, there is no effective heat transfer. Refrigerant leaks require professional help to find and fix the source of the leak.

4. Dirty Condenser Coils

Condenser coils release the heat absorbed from your indoor space to the outside air. Over time, these coils can accumulate dirt and debris, particularly in commercial environments where outdoor air quality might be compromised. This build up prevents the release of heat, causing the system to circulate warm air back into your business.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of condenser coils are crucial.

5. Improperly Sized Air Conditioner

The size of your commercial AC unit matters.

Sometimes the floor plans change in a space. Sometimes heat loads are more than what the original design planned for cooling. An undersized unit will struggle to cool your space, while an oversized unit will be more prone to short-cycling, which means turning on and off repeatedly — causing poor cooling, high humidity, and higher energy bills. Make sure your HVAC system is properly sized for your business’s square footage, heat loads*, and cooling needs by consulting with an HVAC professional.

*Heat load is the heat-making objects in a space, i.e. number of people, equipment like computers, lights, copiers, machines, new windows allowing sunlight, etc.

6. Thermostat Issues

A malfunctioning/incorrectly set thermostat CAN affect your air conditioner’s performance. Make sure your thermostat is set to “COOL” and is functioning correctly.

FAN set to “Auto” means the blower runs only while cooling or heating. When the thermostat setpoint is satisfied, the blower or fan shuts off.

FAN set to “On” runs the fan continuously to keep circulating air within the space. Air moving across your skin is a cooling effect. Personal preference for comfort but know what the settings mean.

Issues like incorrect temperature calibration or installation site can result in poor cooling performance. A thermostat installed on a wall where sunlight shines through a window onto a wall or has a heat load (ex. copier machine) nearby will influence the sensitivity of temperature in the space.

Regular maintenance should include checking your thermostat’s settings, calibration, and wiring.

7. Leaky Ductwork

Damaged or leaky ductwork can result in cool air escaping before it reaches your workspace. If your HVAC ductwork is compromised, your air conditioner will run, but the cool air you’re paying for will be lost.

Call On Us for Commercial HVAC Services

At Interstate AC, we understand the unique needs of commercial properties. With over 20 years of experience serving Middle Tennessee, we provide reliable HVAC solutions tailored to your needs.

Call (615) 802-COOL (2665) to schedule a service or consultation with our expert team, and keep your business cool and comfortable throughout the summer months.

FAQs

How Often Should Commercial AC Filters Be Changed?

Filters in a commercial setting should be checked monthly and replaced as needed, typically every 1-3 months.

How Does High Humidity Affect Air Conditioning?

High humidity levels can make your business feel warmer than it is, even if your AC is working properly. The cooling process by design removes the moisture from the air. This moisture runs off the cooling coil and into drain lines that travel to the outdoors or deposits into the building drains. During high humidity months, those drain lines should be cleared or water leaks occur, or backed up water will force the equipment to shut off. Outside air should be reduced or minimized during these months as it introduces high humidity to the space. Equipment with economizers installed will have outdoor sensors which detect outside air temps and humidity, and will automatically close down or reduce intake.

Can We Repair A Refrigerant Leak Ourselves?

No, refrigerant leaks should always be handled by professionals due to the complexities and regulations involved.