Commercial Air Conditioning: 6 Signs It’s Time for a System Upgrade

Investing in Comfort: The Benefits of Upgrading Your Commercial Air Conditioning

Whew! We are right in the middle of the tough part of the cooling season, when we can expect the temperature and humidity to climb simultaneously and make everyone appreciate good air conditioning. These conditions also make this the perfect time to assess current commercial air conditioning systems and plan for any needed upgrades.

Air conditioning is what makes the interaction between your staff and your guests possible; unless it is absolutely necessary to be outdoors, folks are looking for relief, to come inside to a nice, air-conditioned space. Upgrades to your building’s air conditioning enhance everyone’s comfort and improve working conditions.

Upgrades will also save money by reducing the operating costs for these essential building systems. Saving energy saves money, and saving money directly affects operating costs. Upgrades are really investments in your business.

If your business model includes Green or environmentally friendly statements, upgrading air conditioning systems in a timely manner should be a part of your action plan. Environmental engineers work tirelessly to improve efficiency (reducing the carbon footprint) and develop environmentally responsible refrigerants (reducing ozone depletion).

What might indicate upgrades needed for commercial air conditioning?

• Age, combined with current performance. Commercial air conditioning has a wide range of useful lifespans, with averages ranging from 15 to 25 years. The current system might be going strong after 20 years, but it is prudent to make plans and choose the time of replacement rather than waiting too long and facing an emergency. Combine what you know about both the age and performance of your current system.
• Age, combined with energy costs, should also factor into the decision. Older systems use more energy than new air conditioners. Age and use factors into the efficiency, since even the best air conditioning system loses efficiency with each passing year. Check energy bills over the last few years, recognizing a pattern of increased electric energy use during summer months.

What Upgrades Should Be Considered?

• Check current building codes and compare the level of insulation in walls, attics, ceilings, and plenums. A business owner is likely to recognize inadequate insulation, since it directly affects comfort levels. Adding insulation to an existing building can be tricky, but certainly upgrade insulation during remodeling or renovation projects.
• Duct Inspections. Air-conditioned air moves under pressure. Any flaw, break, or leak in the ductwork means that conditioned air is being forced into unconditioned air. Discovering and repairing even small leaks will improve the efficiency of the entire air conditioning system.
• System Upgrades. New air conditioning systems are the (current) state-of-the-art system. They use the latest refrigerant that transfers heat more efficiently than older formulas. New motors, both blower motors and compressor motors, are available with variable speeds. The need for cooling is different when the outside temperature is 80 °F compared to 108 °F. Variable speed motors use just the right energy to get the job done, instead of always using the maximum speed.
• System Controls. The electronics that manage new air conditioning systems are much quieter, energy efficient, and sensitive to slight changes. Nowhere is that more evidenced than with new thermostats. Commercial thermostats are programmable, so that scheduled temperature changes are automatic. Automatically reducing the demand for cooling overnight is just the beginning. Smart thermostats are connected to apps that track energy efficiency in real time and alert business owners of looming problems before they manifest themselves.

Talk with an AirPro Houston commercial air conditioning technician to determine which upgrades might positively impact your business the most. 

Modernize Your Commercial Air Conditioning with the Experts at AirPro Houston

Proactively upgrading your commercial air conditioning system is a strategic investment in your business’s comfort, efficiency, and long-term savings. Don’t wait for a system failure to impact your operations or bottom line. Contact AirPro Houston today to discuss your commercial air conditioning needs and discover how our expert team can help you find the perfect HVAC solution.

For professional commercial air conditioning service you can trust, contact AirPro Houston. We have several financing options available with great options. Up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at 281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your Cypress commercial air conditioning needs.