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Why Your Commercial HVAC Smells Musty in the Spring and What to Do

As the weather changes and we enter spring, we often notice a specific smell coming from our air units. This musty odor, which can sometimes be quite intense, is often caused by mold and mildew conditioning buildup during the winter months. These fungi thrive in damp, dark environments, which makes your HVAC system the perfect breeding ground for them. Here’s why your commercial HVAC smells musty in the spring and how you can get rid of this problem for good.

  1. Causes of Musty Smells in Commercial HVAC Systems

As mentioned earlier, one of the leading causes of musty smells in commercial HVAC systems is mold and mildew buildup. Not only do these fungi create a stale odor, but they can also pose a health hazard for people working in the building. Another cause of musty smells in commercial HVAC systems is the accumulation of dirt and debris that could have accumulated in the ductwork over time. When it gets hot and humid, the moisture can interact with the particle matter and create an unpleasant smell.

  1. Health Risks Associated with Musty Smells

The musty odor coming from your commercial HVAC system could be a sign of a bigger problem that poses a health risk to employees and customers in your building. Mold and mildew can cause some people allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and more severe health problems. So while cleaning and maintaining your HVAC system is essential for your comfort, it is even more critical for your health.

  1. Ways to Prevent Musty Smells in Commercial HVAC Systems

One of the best ways to prevent musty smells from coming from your commercial HVAC system is to have it regularly inspected and maintained. The commercial HVAC contractor can spot issues that could cause future problems and recommend ways to minimize the risk of mold and mildew proliferation in your HVAC system. In addition, regularly changing air filters and keeping the ductwork clean can help prevent musty smells.

  1. What to Do If You Notice a Musty Smell

If you are experiencing a musty smell coming from your commercial HVAC system, the first step is to contact a professional HVAC contractor to inspect and maintain the system. In the meantime, there are ways to minimize the smell, including dehumidifiers and air fresheners. However, these are only temporary fixes and not a solution. A professional contractor can help you get to the root cause of the issue and resolve it for good.

  1. Conclusion

A musty smell coming from your commercial HVAC system is unpleasant and could be a sign of more significant health hazards. Regular HVAC maintenance can help prevent musty smells from returning, keeping your building smelling fresh and your employees healthy. Remember, the longer you wait to address the issue, the more serious the problem can become. So be proactive and keep your commercial HVAC system in good working order.

In conclusion, it is essential to be vigilant and address musty smells from your commercial HVAC system as soon as possible. A proactive approach is always the best way to prevent these smells and avoid more serious health issues from developing. Contact a licensed and experienced commercial HVAC contractor today to ensure your building’s air quality is of the highest standard.

Prepare Your HVAC System For Cold Winter Temperatures

As winter approaches, ensuring that your commercial HVAC system is prepared for the colder weather is essential. However, you need to take the necessary precautions to avoid ending up with a plan that doesn’t work correctly and leaves your employees or customers uncomfortable. In this blog post, we will discuss tips on preparing your commercial HVAC for winter.

  1. Check your system regularly to ensure all components are functioning correctly. This includes checking your heaters, vents, and other parts of the system to ensure everything is working as it should.

  1. If you notice any issues with your commercial HVAC during winter, don’t hesitate to call a professional for repairs. Trying to fix the problem can lead to further damage and even put you at risk of injury, so it’s best to leave it to the experts.

  1. Make sure that your commercial HVAC system is properly insulated. This will help keep heat inside your building, ensuring that your employees or customers stay warm during winter.

  1. If you have an older commercial HVAC system, consider upgrading to newer, more energy-efficient models that can help save you money on your heating bills.

Following these tips ensures that your commercial HVAC is ready for the winter season ahead. With the proper preparation and maintenance, you can keep your building comfortable, and your commercial HVAC is running smoothly, even as the temperature drops.

How to Detect a Gas Leak in a Commercial HVAC System

A gas leak can be a scary thing. Not only is the thought of gas leaking into your home or office potentially dangerous, but the gas smell can also be overwhelming and nauseating. This post will look at what a gas leak would look and smell like in a commercial HVAC system.

Contact Your Utility Company

If you think you may have a gas leak, you should first call your utility company. They will be able to shut off the gas to your building and send someone out to investigate the source of the leak.

Gas Smell

When natural gas is released into the air, it has a distinct smell. It’s often described as a “rotten egg” smell. If you smell this odor near your HVAC system, it’s important to evacuate the area immediately and call your utility company.

Bubbling or Hissing Sounds

If you see any hissing or bubbling coming from your gas lines, this is another sign that there may be a gas leak. Hissing or bubbling noises are caused by escaping gas leaking from the piping.

Electronic Gas Detectors

If you have an electronic gas detector, you can use this to check for the presence of natural gas. Gas detectors are designed to sound an alarm when they detect high levels of natural gas in the air.

Act Fast

If you suspect a gas leak, it’s essential to act quickly. Evacuate the area immediately and call your utility company. Do not try to find the source of the leak yourself. Gas leaks can be hazardous, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

Understanding the Differences between a “Simple” and “Emergency” Repair for a Commercial HVAC System

When it comes to your commercial HVAC system, there are two different types of repairs that
you may need to have done: simple repairs and emergency repairs. Both types of repairs are
essential, but they are also very different. Here is a look at the difference between a simple
repair and an emergency repair for your commercial HVAC system:

Simple Repairs:

Simple repairs are just that: simple. They are not going to require a lot of work or a lot of time to
fix. In most cases, simple repairs can be done with just a few tools and a little knowledge. Some
examples of simple maintenance include:

  • Replacing a dirty air filter
  • Cleaning condenser coils
  • Clearing a clogged drain line
  • Tightening loose bolts or screws

Emergency Repairs:

Emergency repairs, on the other hand, are much more severe. They are the type of repairs that
need to be done right away to avoid further damage to your HVAC system or to avoid putting
yourself and others in danger. Some examples of emergency repairs include:

  • Fixing a gas leak
  • Repairing electrical wiring
  • Replacing a broken compressor
  • Fixing a refrigerant leak

As you can see, there is a big difference between a simple repair and an emergency repair.
Simple repairs can usually be handled independently, while emergency repairs are best left to
the professionals. If you are unsure whether a repair is an emergency, it is always better to err
on the side of caution and call in a professional.

4 Ways to Make Your Commercial HVAC System more Energy-Efficient

If your commercial HVAC system is outdated or inefficient, it could be costing you a lot of money in energy bills. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient system can help you save money and make your business more sustainable. Here are four ways to make your commercial HVAC system more energy-efficient:

  1. Upgrade to a more efficient HVAC system

If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Newer, energy-efficient systems can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. There may also be utility rebates to help offset the costs of your new system.

  1. Get regular maintenance and tune-ups

Regular maintenance and tune-ups can help your HVAC system run more efficiently and last longer. Dirty air filters and coils cause your unit to run longer, be less efficient, and consume more energy. Be sure to schedule tune-ups at least twice a year to keep your system in good condition.

  1. Use energy-efficient lighting and appliances

Upgrading energy-efficient lighting and appliances can help reduce the heat load in your building. Energy-efficient bulbs use less electricity and generate less heat, which can help keep your business cooler in the summer and allow your HVAC system to run less.

  1. Educate your employees about energy efficiency

Educating your employees about energy efficiency can help them be more conscious of their energy use. Encourage them to turn off lights and appliances when they’re not in use, and to dress appropriately for the weather to avoid overusing the air conditioning.

Implementing these energy-efficiency measures can help you save money and make your business more sustainable. For more tips on how to improve the energy efficiency of your commercial HVAC system, contact a local HVAC contractor.

Is Your Commercial HVAC System Ready For Summer?

No matter what kind of commercial HVAC system you have, it’s important to make sure that it’s ready for the summer season. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  1. Schedule a maintenance checkup: This is probably the most important thing you can do to prepare your HVAC system for summer. A professional technician can clean the system, check for any potential problems, and make sure that it’s operating efficiently.
  1. Change your air filters: Dirty air filters can significantly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. Be sure to change them on a regular basis – at least once every three months, depending on filter type.
  1. Check your ductwork: Leaky or damaged ductwork can also lead to reduced efficiency and higher energy bills. Be sure to have your ducts inspected by a professional and repaired or replaced if necessary.
  1. Install a programmable thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help you save money on your energy bills by automatically adjusting the temperature to match your needs and business schedule.
  1. Consider upgrading your system: If your HVAC system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. Newer systems can save you money on your energy bills and provide better comfort during the summer months.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your HVAC system is ready for summer. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact a professional technician for assistance.

2 Common Spring Commercial HVAC Complications & How to Fix Them

Spring is rapidly approaching, which means that now is the time to start thinking about any commercial HVAC repairs or maintenance that may be needed to ensure that your system is running properly. Unfortunately, many businesses wait until they experience problems with their HVAC before they take action, which can often be too late.

To help you avoid any springtime surprises, we’ve compiled a list of some common HVAC complications that can occur, as well as what you can do to fix them:

Clogged Air Filters

One of the most common issues that can occur with your HVAC system is a clogged air filter. Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on your air filter, which can restrict airflow and cause your system to work harder than it needs to. As a result, your energy bills will likely increase, and your system may not be able to effectively cool or heat your commercial space.

To avoid this issue, be sure to check your air filter regularly and replace it as needed. Depending on the type of filter you have, it may need to be replaced every 30 days or so.

Dirty Condenser Coil

Another common issue with your HVAC system is a dirty condenser coil. This should be a regularly scheduled maintenance item for your HVAC systems. A dirty or clogged condenser coil can lead to several additional problems; including higher energy bills, uncomfortable space temperatures, and compressor failure.

If you notice that your condenser coil is dirty, you will need to call an HVAC professional to inspect your system and make the necessary repairs.

No matter what type of commercial HVAC services you need this spring, our team at Altemp Mechanical is here to help. Give us a call today for more information or to schedule a service appointment.

How is Air Filtered in Commercial HVAC Systems?

There are a few different ways that air is filtered in commercial HVAC systems. The most common method is through the use of an air filter. Air filters are designed to remove airborne contaminants from the air that passes through them. They are typically made of paper or cloth and can be replaced when they become clogged with dirt and debris. There are also electronic air filters that use negative ions to trap dust and other particles, but these can be more expensive than traditional filtration systems.

UV Systems

Another common method of commercial HVAC system air filtration is through the use of UV lights. These are installed directly above cooling coils or heat exchangers, where mold and bacteria can grow. The UV light kills these contaminants, preventing them from being circulated back into the air.

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are also sometimes used in commercial HVAC systems. HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate air and these filters are designed to remove 99.97% of all particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. These filters are used in applications where there is a high amount of dust or other pollutants in the air.

Custom Settings

In addition to these filtration methods, commercial HVAC systems can also be designed to improve ventilation and circulation within a building. This helps remove airborne contaminants from occupied spaces, particularly when large amounts of people gather in enclosed spaces. Proper ventilation and filtration can help ensure that air quality remains high in even the most common areas of commercial buildings.

As you can see, there are a variety of ways that air is filtered in commercial HVAC systems. Whether you are considering installing an HVAC system or have one already, it is important to understand how the air is being filtered so that you can get the most out of your system.

What’s considered an HVAC Emergency?

An HVAC emergency can be classified as an unexpected problem with your heating, ventilation, or air conditioning system that causes a life safety, operations, or customer issue. This can include problems with the equipment itself, utilities to the equipment, or equipment controls. If you’re experiencing an HVAC emergency, it’s important to call a professional technician right away for repair services.

Some of the most common HVAC emergencies include:

  1. Heating failure – If your heating equipment stops working, you’ll likely experience cold temperatures in your building.
  1. Water infiltration – Leaks in the ductwork or equipment can allow water to enter the building, which can cause extensive damage.
  1. Carbon monoxide poisoning – Faulty heating systems can produce high levels of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.
  1. Ductwork damage – If the ductwork is damaged, it can lead to air flow problems with heating and cooling your building.
  1. Freeze Ups- Cooling system problems can cause the evaporator coil freezes, this will lead to low air flow and lack of cooling to the space.
  1. Electrical problems – Issues with the electrical wiring can cause the system to not operate or damage unit components, creating a dangerous situation.

If you’re experiencing any of these HVAC emergencies, don’t wait – call a professional technician for repair services immediately. By addressing the problem quickly, you can avoid further damage and ensure that your building stays comfortable all year long.