Commercial Furnace Repair Tips

VA Commercial Repair Solutions

If your commercial furnace is giving you trouble, it may be time for a repair. A proactive approach to repair is the best way to ensure that the system continues to work at optimum efficiency. To help you identify and fix small problems quickly, here are some helpful tips. Check the evaporator coils (the coil inside the furnace) and capacitors. Also, check the fuel delivery. These are the most important initial steps to determining the problem and repairing it before the problem escalates into a major one.

Commercial Furnace Repair Tips

Check evaporator coils

Commercial Furnace Repair Tips

If you suspect that your furnace may be suffering from overheating or has a leaking valve, you should check the evaporator coils. The fins on the evaporator are made of thin metal, and they can bend easily. To clean them properly, you should use hot soapy water, a plastic bristle brush and a shop vac. You may also use a commercial coil cleaning solution.

Before beginning, turn the air conditioner off at the thermostat or circuit breaker. Remove the panel and clean the evaporator coil with a plastic brush. Make sure that you direct the airflow in the opposite direction from the direction of the airflow. Be sure to wear eye protection while cleaning the coils. If you can't afford to pay a professional, use a shop vac to clean the evaporator coils yourself.

Another way to check the evaporator coils is by checking the static pressure drop across the coil. The static pressure drop is the same as the CFM of air flowing across the coil. If the pressure drop is lower than the set limit, it means the air supply to the evaporator coil is not sufficient. For example, a five-ton system should have about 2,000 CFM of air flowing across the coil, that is 400 CFM  & 12,000 BTUs per ton.

Check fan motor

Commercial Furnace Repair Tips

If your furnace is constantly running, the fan may be having problems. This may be a symptom of an electrical problem with the fan motor. If you're unable to determine the source of the problem, try determining how much voltage is dropped across the motor's contact points. You can also look for a loose wire or a corroded electrical connector. If the fan motor is not turning, it may be because it's overheating or there's a short in the motor's windings.


When performing a commercial furnace repair you'll need to check the fan motor. It is an industry-standard to inspect all components to determine whether it's operating correctly. This includes the blower motor. A properly functioning fan motor will allow the heating system to run more efficiently and save energy. If the fan motor is malfunctioning, the heater will stop working, resulting in higher energy bills. A technician can determine whether the blower motor needs to be replaced and replace it if necessary.


To test the fan motor, raise the thermostat to a higher temperature. Then, check the power switch to make sure it's set to the appropriate position. If it doesn't turn on, set the system switch to the "HEAT" or "AUTO" position. If you're experiencing an overheating problem, raise the thermostat to the highest setting. If it doesn't turn on, raise the thermostat and check the power switch.

Check capacitors

When doing commercial furnace repair, check the capacitors. These parts may be easy to overlook but are essential for heating and cooling your building. Capacitors hold a charge even when the unit is not powered on. You must discharge these capacitors according to the manufacturer's instructions. The voltage ratings for capacitors are usually listed on the side of the unit. If you find that the capacitors you have are not functioning at voltage and microfarad rating, they must be replaced.


You can test the blower motor for a bad capacitor to determine if you need to replace it. You may notice that the blower is running slowly or inconsistently. The blower motor may also be overheating and acting strangely. If you suspect a capacitor problem, you should contact a professional. You may not be aware that a bad capacitor is affecting your family's comfort. To ensure a safe and effective operation of your commercial furnace, inspect the blower motor's capacitors.


Another way to test the blower's capacitors is to turn on the furnace and listen closely for humming noises. You can hear these noises by turning up the blower or by opening the access panel. If you do hear humming noises, you should schedule a professional inspection. These components are easy to replace and are inexpensive. You can replace them yourself, but you should ensure you consult a professional before trying to perform the repair on your own.

Check fuel delivery

A company providing commercial furnace repair should be reliable. They should have trained, professional staff who are HAZMAT-certified. If you have a company vehicle, they should use trucks that have special fuel delivery systems. They should also have a trained driver who is able to fuel equipment safely and efficiently. This way, you can avoid the risk of spills and leaks. A service can check your tank to make sure it is working properly and inspect for damage. In case there is a leak in your furnace, they can replace the tank.

Check ductwork

Commercial Furnace Repair Tips

A leaking ductwork can be a serious problem. Not only does it pull in dust from the outside, but it also circulates it throughout the building. While dust is not harmful, it can negatively affect air quality, which can be problematic for people with respiratory problems and allergies. Therefore, a professional should check the ductwork before attempting any commercial furnace repair. Here are some of the common signs of leaking ductwork:


Older HVAC systems can be problematic. They lose up to 40% of their efficiency over time. Rusted ductwork may require replacing the whole ductwork system. The older the commercial property, the more likely the ductwork is to be damaged. It can be difficult to access and may cost more than you'd expect. If you're unsure whether your ductwork is damaged, you can always hire an HVAC specialist to check it for you.


Leaky ducts also cause uneven cooling in your home or business. The leaking air makes certain areas too hot, while others stay too cold. This can cause discomfort for residents and strain your HVAC unit. If left unchecked, it can also lead to a lower unit lifespan. For these reasons, you should check your ductwork if you need a commercial furnace repair. Consider contacting a professional HVAC specialist in your area.

Check the Electrical System

Commercial Furnace Repair Tips

Whether you're looking to upgrade an existing commercial HVAC system or install a new one, a proper evaluation of the electrical system is vital to the performance of your heating and cooling. Moreover, it will ensure that your electrical system can support the extra load that your new system puts on it. Checking the electrical system is a great way to optimize the value of your investment. Here are some tips to help you evaluate the system.


Before calling a commercial HVAC technician, make sure that the unit is powered on. A malfunctioning furnace can cause a series of problems, including frozen pipes or complaints from building occupants. Some problems can be easily resolved by the owner, but some require the assistance of a technician. Whenever you are looking for commercial HVAC repair, be sure to check the electrical system. Check to see if it's connected to the power supply and running.


If the power disconnect switch is turned off, check your electrical system. Some electrical equipment may be overloaded and lead to a power outage. Check the circuit breaker to ensure it's set in the "On" position. You may also need to open the valve for the gas supply. Once you're sure of this, you can call a commercial HVAC technician to inspect your equipment. They'll also check the fuel supply and test the electrical system to ensure that there's enough fuel in the tank.

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Commercial air conditioning installation services in Charlottesville comprise a range of offerings tailored to commercial facilities. Services include the specification and installation of different HVAC configurations to match building type and operational demands, with attention to system performance and energy optimisation. Professional installation ensures compliance with applicable codes and proper commissioning. Selecting local contractors, such as VA Commercial Repair Solutions, offers advantages including familiarity with regional climate conditions and reduced response times for ongoing service needs. Which Types of Commercial HVAC Systems Are Best Suited for Charlottesville Businesses? Commercial properties in Charlottesville commonly utilise split systems, packaged units, and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems. Split systems provide flexibility and scalable capacity for larger floorplates. Packaged units deliver a compact integrated solution for smaller footprints. VRF systems offer improved part-load efficiency and individual zone control, which supports targeted comfort and energy performance. System selection should be based on building size, energy objectives, and lifecycle cost considerations. Research further highlights VRF systems' contributions to improved energy performance and individualized thermal control. VRF Systems for Commercial HVAC Energy Efficiency & Comfort In commercial buildings, air conditioning and mechanical ventilation (ACMV) systems account for a major portion of overall energy consumption, creating a need for energy-efficient ACMV design. Effective design must balance enhanced thermal comfort and indoor air quality objectives. The variable refrigerant flow (VRF) air-conditioning system has been widely adopted as an alternative to conventional cooling systems due to its higher energy efficiency and its capability for individualized temperature control. A comprehensive review of variable refrigerant flow (VRF) and ventilation designs for thermal comfort in commercial buildings, YH Yau, 2024 How Do Licensed Technicians Ensure Reliable HVAC Installation? Licensed technicians ensure reliable HVAC installation through formal training and practical experience. They perform load assessments, specify appropriate equipment, and execute installations in accordance with safety codes and manufacturer procedures. Quality assurance measures—such as calibrated testing, commissioning, and documented inspections—verify that systems perform as intended. Engaging licensed professionals reduces installation risk and supports long-term operational efficiency. How Can Emergency Commercial AC Repair Services Minimize Business Downtime? Emergency commercial AC repair services reduce business downtime during critical operating periods. System outages can create uncomfortable conditions that affect employee productivity and customer experience; therefore, rapid fault diagnosis and repair are essential. Prompt response limits secondary damage, restores functional conditions, and helps maintain normal operations. What Are the Signs That Indicate Immediate Commercial AC Repair Is Needed? Recognizing the signs that indicate immediate commercial AC repair is needed enables businesses to avoid extended interruptions. Common indicators include: Unusual Noises : Grinding, squealing, or banging sounds can indicate mechanical issues. Inconsistent Temperatures : If some areas of the building are significantly warmer or cooler than others, it may signal a problem with the system. Increased Energy Bills : A sudden spike in energy costs can suggest that the AC system is working harder than it should due to inefficiencies. Timely intervention on these symptoms prevents further component damage and restores system efficiency. How Does VA Commercial Repair Solutions Provide Rapid Emergency Response in Charlottesville? VA Commercial Repair Solutions maintains a rapid emergency-response capability in Charlottesville. Their technicians are trained to diagnose a broad range of HVAC faults and implement corrective actions to restore comfort and system function. The team emphasises fast response and practical repairs, leveraging local system knowledge to minimise disruption to business operations. What Are the Benefits of Preventive Maintenance for Commercial HVAC Systems? Preventive maintenance improves system reliability and extends equipment life. Regular service identifies developing faults before they escalate, sustains peak operational efficiency, and reduces lifecycle repair costs. Businesses that prioritise scheduled maintenance benefit from lower energy consumption and a more consistent comfort environment for employees and customers. How Do Maintenance Contracts Enhance Energy Efficiency and System Longevity? A formal maintenance contract institutionalises routine inspections, cleaning, and required adjustments to sustain optimal performance. Consistent adherence to a maintenance schedule reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures and expensive corrective repairs. Well-maintained systems operate more efficiently, resulting in lower energy bills and diminished environmental impact. What Are Recommended Maintenance Schedules for Commercial Air Conditioning Units? Recommended practice is to perform maintenance at least twice annually—once before the cooling season and once before the heating season. During these visits, technicians should clean coils, verify refrigerant charge, and inspect electrical and control components. Seasonal maintenance reduces failure risk and helps ensure efficient operation over the equipment lifecycle. How Do Commercial Refrigeration and Electrical Repair Services Integrate with HVAC Solutions? Coordinated commercial refrigeration and electrical repair services are essential to maintain overall system performance. Failures in refrigeration or electrical subsystems can impair HVAC efficiency, increase energy consumption, and risk product loss in temperature-controlled operations. Integrated service approaches preserve operational continuity across interdependent systems. Why Is Regular Commercial Refrigeration Maintenance Critical for Business Operations? Routine commercial refrigeration maintenance is critical for businesses that handle temperature-sensitive products, such as food and pharmaceuticals. Deferred maintenance increases the likelihood of equipment failure and associated financial losses. Proactive service detects potential faults early, preserves inventory integrity, and supports consistent product quality that underpins customer satisfaction. How Do Electrical Repairs Support Optimal HVAC System Performance? Timely electrical repairs are fundamental to reliable HVAC operation. HVAC systems depend on electrical components; degraded wiring, controls, or circuit boards can produce inefficiencies or complete system failures. Regular electrical inspections and prompt corrective action help avoid downtime and ensure safe, efficient operation. What Energy Efficiency Upgrades Are Available for Commercial HVAC Systems in Charlottesville? Energy-efficiency upgrades for commercial HVAC systems can materially reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Upgrades may include high-efficiency equipment, smart thermostats, and advanced control systems that optimise runtime and setpoints. Investing in efficient technologies reduces energy consumption while supporting organisational sustainability objectives. How Do Smart Controls and Modern Technologies Improve HVAC Energy Savings? Smart controls and modern technologies enable real-time monitoring and automated adjustment based on occupancy and environmental conditions. Smart thermostats and building management systems can adapt setpoints and schedules to minimise energy use during unoccupied periods. Implementing these technologies supports measurable energy savings and improved system responsiveness. The influence of advanced building controls on energy consumption and peak-load management is well documented. Commercial Building Controls for Energy Savings & Peak Load Reduction Commercial buildings in the United States consume approximately 18 Quadrillion British thermal units (Quads) of primary energy annually. Studies indicate that up to 30% of building energy consumption can be avoided through more accurate sensing, improved use of existing controls, and deployment of advanced controls. Research also demonstrates that 10% to 20% of commercial building peak load can be temporarily managed or curtailed to provide grid services. Impacts of commercial building controls on energy savings and peak load reduction, S Katipamula, 2017 What Are the Latest Industry Standards and Certifications for Energy-Efficient HVAC? Staying current with industry standards and certifications is important when evaluating energy-efficient HVAC options. Recognised certifications such as ENERGY STAR and LEED indicate compliance with established efficiency criteria. Selecting certified systems helps ensure regulatory alignment and supports organisational sustainability goals. To learn more about our HVAC services, please contact us. Frequently Asked Questions What factors should businesses consider when choosing a commercial HVAC system? When selecting a commercial HVAC system, assess space size, energy-efficiency ratings, and the facility's specific heating and cooling requirements. Evaluate initial installation costs in relation to projected operational and maintenance expenses. Consider local climate conditions and the system's capacity to accommodate temperature variability. Consultation with qualified HVAC professionals will yield recommendations tailored to these factors. How can businesses ensure their HVAC systems comply with local regulations? To ensure regulatory compliance, engage licensed HVAC contractors who are familiar with codes and standards in Charlottesville, VA. These professionals can advise on system selection and installation practices that meet safety and efficiency requirements. Maintain documentation of installations and scheduled inspections to demonstrate adherence to local regulations. What are the potential cost savings from energy-efficient HVAC upgrades? Energy-efficient HVAC upgrades can deliver significant cost savings through reduced energy consumption. 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Prioritise energy-efficiency upgrades to reduce operating costs and advance sustainability goals. Contact us to explore our HVAC services to keep your business operating at peak performance.
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