Loss Prevention

Air conditioning systems

Commercial air conditioning systems vary in configuration and size from small split-systems to large chillers. Air conditioning maintains indoor building temperatures to remove heat and prevent physical damage to indoor furniture and equipment. Physical damage to air conditioning systems normally results in expensive repairs.

roof mounted air conditioning units

Most air conditioning systems are designed to operate trouble-free for years without significant costly maintenance. Refrigerant leaks often develop over a long period of time, which can cause operating problems and damage to equipment. Leaks can occur for several reasons, such as corrosion, weak joints, factory defects, installation errors and long-term wear and tear. This typically results in poor operation, loss of cooling power and icing of the evaporator coils. However, it can also cause serious damage to the compressor, eventually leading to failure. A failed compressor normally needs to be fully replaced, which can be costly and result in a loss of business income.

Depending on the size and type of air conditioning system configuration, a small air conditioning system can have replacement values ranging from $2,800 to $18,000 and $500 to $1,500 per ton of refrigerant capacity for a large commercial duty air conditioning system. System sizes vary by class of business and geographic location based on need for removal of heat load inside the building which increases system installation costs.

Air conditioning systems mounted on a rooftop require special consideration for installation or removal. The cost for a crane rental to place or remove an air conditioning system from a rooftop range from $300 to $1,200. Costs vary based on the lift height requires, the length of rental and the weight of the air conditioning unit.

Air conditioning system maintenance is designed to maximize reliability, energy efficiency and decrease the potential for breakdown. Annual maintenance should be handled by a qualified third-party contractor, which would include start-up checks, inspection, testing, servicing, cleaning and verifying correct operation of the entire air conditioning system.

Here are some additional maintenance tips for commercial systems:

  • Ensure cooling fins are clean and unobstructed by vegetation or other large objects.
  • Straighten bent fins. Verify that the belt is not cracked and check the belt tension.
  • Ensure all piping supports and fasteners are secure.
  • Ensure dampers open and close properly and lubricate if necessary.
  • Clean out dirt, leaves and debris inside the cabinet/enclosure.
  • Check for excess noise or vibration (motor, pump, compressor, fan, piping).
  • Check for signs of oil, grease or refrigerant leaks (piping, condenser, evaporator, pump, fan, compressor).
  • Check filters every month and replace them as needed.
  • Once per month check and record compressor suction and discharge pressures.
  • Once per month ensure the coil, if easily accessible, is free of frost.