You must adequately maintain a clean HVAC system if you want your equipment to operate at an optimal peak. Besides increased unit performance, you will prevent upper respiratory conditions and allergies in your commercial property environment.

Research shows that indoor air could contain up to five times more contaminants than outdoor air. This may occur due to bacteria, cleaning products and dust. Read this quick guide for tips and tricks on how to keep your commercial HVAC unit clean.

Consider Regular Filter Replacement or Cleaning

Dirty and clogged filters cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy costs and potential damage to the system. A dirty filter can also cause your air conditioner to freeze, incurring costly repairs.

To clean your filter, remove it from the unit, vacuum or wipe it appropriately and put it back into the HVAC unit. If the filter is visibly dirty or damaged, purchase a new one. Experts say replacing a clogged or dirty air conditioner filter can minimize energy consumption by up to 15%.

Clean or Replace Your Unit’s Ductwork

Ductwork distributes heated or cooled air throughout your commercial property. Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants can build up inside the ducts. This reduces airflow and makes your HVAC system work harder to maintain the desired temperature.

Let an expert inspect and clean your ductwork for an optimally functioning unit. HVAC professionals use specialized equipment to remove dirt and debris build-up and check for leaks or duct damage. They seal gaps in the ductwork to enhance your HVAC system’s efficiency and prevent future build-up.

Maintain a Clean HVAC Unit with Humidity Control

Excess humidity leads to mold and mildew growth, causing health issues to your tenants. It can damage your property’s walls, ceilings, and furniture. High humidity levels make your premise feel warmer than it is, meaning your HVAC system will work harder than expected.

You can use a dehumidifier to control the humidity level in your commercial property. These devices remove excess moisture from the air. This reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth, improves indoor air quality and enhances comfort.

Clean Your Unit’s Exterior

Remove debris, such as grass clippings, twigs, and leaves, from your system’s exterior for free air circulation and improved efficiency.  Check the fins, the thin metal blades that dissipate heat, and ensure they are clean. Bent fins can cause the unit to work harder and decrease its efficiency.
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To clean the exterior, use a soft-bristled brush or a hose with a high-pressure nozzle to remove dirt or debris on the unit. Inspect the hoses and connections to confirm they are secure and leak-free.

Clean the HVAC Coils Regularly

The evaporator coils inside the air handler absorb heat from your property’s indoor air while those outside release the absorbed heat outside. Dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on these coils, reducing their ability to absorb and release heat. Clean them regularly to maximize your unit’s performance.

Maintain a Clean HVAC System with Sun Mechanical Systems

A clean HVAC system is vital for your tenant’s comfort and it should be a priority. For excellent results, it is best to work with a reputable HVAC maintenance crew. At Sun Mechanical Systems, we help you achieve your property’s heating and cooling goals. Contact us today for an inspection and customized recommendations. 

Projections show that the commercial HVAC market will reach $142.97 billion by 2027.

Keeping a commercial environment comfortable is crucial, and HVAC systems are ideal for this. Unfortunately, an HVAC system will degrade with time, so you will require professional commercial heating system repair at some point. You might not know precisely when you should hire a repair service, but there are some signs you can look out for to help determine this.

For 4 signs that your commercial heating system needs a repair, keep reading.

1. Bills Increasing Unexpectedly

Depending on your energy provider, your bills will likely change with time. At some point, however, you might notice a spike in your utility bills even when your supplier has not made any changes. If this happens, your HVAC system could be the reason.

When parts begin to degrade or fail, your HVAC system may need to begin working harder to keep your building at the same temperature. As such, it will use more energy, resulting in higher energy bills, and a greater impact on the environment. When this happens, you should contact an HVAC repair service so that you can get things fixed and have your bills return to normal.

2. Unusual Noises

If your HVAC system starts making unusual noises, this is a clear sign that you will need commercial HVAC repair. There are a range of noises that you might hear, such as:

• Banging
• Squeaking
• Hissing
• Rattling
• Popping
• More

If the noises become more frequent, it generally means things are getting worse, so you should call a professional immediately. More noise (and therefore more damage) means higher repair costs, so the sooner you get your system fixed, the better.

3. Warm or Weak Airflow

When a commercial HVAC unit is not functioning properly, it will struggle to maintain a temperature. You will likely notice this, as it will start to feel warmer even if you have not raised the temperature.

You might also notice the airflow itself becoming weaker. Even with the system on full power, the air vents might not be pushing out air with much force. Several things could cause such issues, so it is worth having a professional take a look to determine the cause of the problem and get it fixed.

4. It's Old

You can ensure your HVAC system is properly maintained and all repairs are done straight away, but it still will not last forever. When well looked after, a commercial heating system can last for up to around 15 years, so if yours is approaching this age, it's probably time for a replacement.

Commercial heating repair will keep it in a good state for longer, but with time, you will notice parts are failing more often and you are needing more repairs. An old HVAC system can also pose a fire risk, which is never ideal.

Commercial Heating System Repair

Through professional commercial heating system repair, you will be able to maximize the lifespan of your HVAC system. Things like unusual noises, poor performance, and increased bills are clear signs that there's something wrong.

Sun Mechanical Systems is a professional heating repair company based in Chicago, IL. We have over 60 years of combined experience, so can handle any HVAC repair job. To find out more about our services, click here to contact us today.

HVAC systems contribute to 39% of the energy that is used in commercial buildings. Because of this, making improvements to a commercial HVAC system can result in big savings.

During the winter months, it is especially important that you get regular HVAC facility maintenance to prevent problems and keep your system working when you need it the most. There are often problems with heating this time of year that can lead to big issues once it gets colder.

Here are 5 benefits of getting HVAC facility maintenance during winter.

1. Reduce Energy Bills

​One of the biggest benefits of getting preventative HVAC maintenance in the winter is that it will help to reduce your energy bills.

If you have not gotten a system checkup recently, your system's mechanical components and filters may not be doing their jobs correctly. It is important to ensure that everything is functioning as it should so that your commercial HVAC system will not have a hard time heating your facility during the colder months.
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Since you will probably be running your heat often during the winter, it is important that you get your system inspected and ensure that it is as efficient as it can be. Otherwise, you may end up paying a lot more on your utility bills than you would like.

2. Prevent Breakdowns

In addition to reducing the cost of energy bills, getting HVAC facility maintenance will also help to reduce the risk of breakdowns.

As debris accumulates in filters and ductwork, your system may become less efficient. At a certain point, however, it could break down completely. While breakdowns can be frustrating year-round, they can be especially tough to deal with during the winter months.

With a bit of preventive maintenance, you can prevent costly breakdowns from occurring at the most inconvenient times. 

3. Prolong HVAC System Lifespan

Not only will a proper HVAC maintenance routine prevent short-term breakdowns, but it can prevent long-term breakdowns as well.

Getting regular maintenance, especially before winter, can help to prolong an HVAC system's lifespan. A professional can help to check your system for small problems that can lead to bigger ones and will help it stay in better shape.

Debris and cracks can cause potential issues over time, so the sooner you discover issues, the better.

4. Increase Facility Safety

Maintaining your HVAC system can also help to protect the people in your building.

A faulty HVAC system could potentially lead to dangerous problems such as a fire or a carbon monoxide leak. It could also lead to poor indoor air quality and this can negatively affect the health of the people on your property.

By getting your HVAC system inspected and maintained, you will prevent potential safety issues and damage to the property.

5. Improve Comfort Levels

In the winter months, people will stay indoors more often. This means that it's especially important to keep an HVAC system in working order.

During this extra time inside your facility, people will need to rely on the comfort and air quality that's available. If there's a lot of dust and bacteria in your ductwork, then your facility could have poor indoor air quality. This can lead to more sickness and discomfort during this time of year.

Be sure that you keep your facility warm and comfortable by using professional HVAC services instead. 

Ensuring Great HVAC Facility Maintenance With These Tips

If you want to keep your facility comfortable, make sure that you keep your HVAC system in mind. Consider getting HVAC facility maintenance during the winter to prevent problems.
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Need help with HVAC facility maintenance? Contact us today to learn how we can help.

When people think of air quality issues, they often think of outdoor pollution. However, several studies have found that indoor air pollution is actually worse. These findings hold even in the largest and most populous cities. 

Poor indoor air quality can cause health problems and other side effects. That's why businesses should use air quality products to improve their indoor air quality.

Maybe you're on the fence about purchasing air quality products. However, investing in air quality products provides several benefits for your business. We'll explore those benefits in this guide!

1. Improve Indoor Air Quality for a Healthier Environment

The first benefit of air quality products for business is that it makes your air healthier. Many employees have allergies that poor air quality can aggravate. The last thing you want to do is worsen their conditions with dry or dusty air. 

You can do several things to improve your air quality without purchasing new products. Think of this as laying the groundwork. 

First, dusty air often indicates that your HVAC system needs cleaning. Older buildings may also have paint, asbestos, or other volatile organic compounds circulating in the air.
 
Removing these issues can improve your commercial building's air quality. Then, you can install new products to ensure your air remains clean and prevents these particles from circulating. 

2. Remove Unpleasant Odors with Air Quality Products

Polluted air often leads to unpleasant smells in the worst place. These smells become particularly pungent if there's a lot of moisture and humidity in the air. 

Nobody wants to work in a building that smells bad. It can even become a distraction and hinder people in their work. 

That's why a dehumidifier can be such a useful tool. These machines can remove up to 90 pints of moisture daily. 

Removing this moisture can greatly reduce unpleasant smells in your building. It can also improve your natural ventilation by making the air less heavy. 

All of these features improve your overall indoor air quality. This way, your employees can work in a clean environment with fewer distractions. 

3. Reduce Your Energy Bills

Weak HVAC systems must work harder to circulate and filter the air in your building. When this happens, they require more electricity to function. These issues cause your energy bill to increase.

Several factors can cause your HVAC system to work harder. These include clogged air filters and dusty vents. 

Fortunately, hiring an HVAC technician can ensure you receive the HVAC repairs necessary to improve your air quality. In doing so, you can reduce your energy bills and stabilize your indoor temperature. 

Hire an HVAC Maintenance Crew

Finding the best air quality products often starts with finding an HVAC maintenance crew. These professionals know how to reduce your air quality issues and ensure your building remains healthy for workers. 

Working with us brings several benefits, from reducing your utility bills to improving air quality. We can also help you avoid pricy repairs. 
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If that interests you, don't hesitate! Contact us today to learn more about our services. 

​According to the U.S. Environment Protection Agency, 30% of the energy used in commercial properties is wasted. If you're a business owner, hire the right professionals to work with you in designing an efficient HVAC system that takes into consideration factors that affect energy consumption such as the roofing and insulation. You can save more energy when your heating and cooling systems are built with efficiency in mind. 

Below are some of the components of a commercial HVAC system. Feel free to contact us if you have questions.

Thermostat

You have three options: manual thermostats, programmable thermostats, and smart thermostats. Manual thermostats are the most user-friendly, but not the best choice especially when energy efficiency is your top goal. It doesn't keep track of your heating and cooling, making it less efficient. 

If you need multi-zone control and the ability to pre-set the temperature schedule, then go for the programmable thermostat. They're more expensive than the manual thermostat and will need professional installation. 

Smart thermostats are the most energy-efficient option because you're able to control the temperature from anywhere, even outside the office. It also provides you with information on your energy usage per month and can make comparisons against the previous months.

Furnaces/Heat Pumps

The type of furnace to install depends on the available power in the area. You can have a gas furnace, electric furnace, oil furnace, or propane furnace. How efficient the home heating system depends on the commercial space's construction, features and size. Consider investing in energy-efficient windows and roofing to save money on your heating. Make sure your space also has adequate insulation. 
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Heat pumps are highly efficient but they're not advisable in areas that get extreme temperatures. Local climate, energy sources, and size of the space are some of the things to consider in choosing a heating system. We suggest talking to professionals to help you make an informed decision.
 
Air Conditioning Unit

Split-type air conditioners will both have indoor and outdoor units. This type doesn't need a major installation because you don't need to install ductwork. With central air conditioners, you'll have more room inside as all of its components are outside the property. However, you'll need to install ductwork and the cooled air passes through the vents. 

Heat Exchanger/Condenser 

The heat exchanger is an important component of a commercial HVAC system and is responsible for transferring thermal energy from one place to another. The condenser and the evaporator coils are its two main types of coils and they help heat and cool a commercial building. 

Air Handler

They hold the important components of your HVAC system including the blowers, evaporator coils, sound dampeners, and other heating and cooling elements. You'll also find the thermal expansion valve inside the air handler and it's responsible for lowering the pressure on the refrigerant. 

Terminal Units

The terminal unit pushes the air from the ductwork and may consist of heating and cooling coils. If you prefer to have split-type air conditioning, a technician may cut off the terminal unit. During the installation of this component, the technician will need to inspect the ductwork and consider its size before installation. 

Do You Need Commercial HVAC Services?

We're an established HVAC design specialist with over 60 years of experience in the industry. Our team of licensed professionals can help you design the most efficient heating and cooling system for your commercial space. Contact us today for an appointment. 

Projections show that the global HVAC market will reach a size of $271.5 billion by 2026.
Modern buildings are making more use of HVAC systems, as well as other mechanical systems, every year. They've become a staple in commercial environments and provide several benefits.
To get the most out of your mechanical systems, you want to ensure you have a professional mechanical system contractor handling things.
To find out more about the importance of mechanical systems in commercial spaces, keep reading.

What Are Mechanical Systems?

Mechanical systems are used for a wide range of applications. They're made up of hardware and often include integrated controls to perform a set function.
Depending on the type of system in question, it may include electronics and software. Sensors might also be present to collect data. This can allow for improved functionality and proper maintenance.

Types of Mechanical Systems

A mechanical system can be any building service that uses machines. Some of the most common examples include:

• Plumbing
• Heating
• Air conditioning
• Elevators
• Escalators

Over the years, these have evolved to offer improved function. Electrical systems have had a huge impact on the capabilities of mechanical systems over the years. More recently, digitization has also provided increased optimization to these systems to make them as efficient and effective as possible.

At Sun Mechanical Systems, we specialize in commercial HVAC systems. With over 60 years of combined experience, we've been able to fine-tune our systems so that they're amongst the best available.

Mechanical Systems Are Important in Commercial Spaces

Almost all commercial buildings include various mechanical systems. Elevators and escalators, for example, are used in almost all buildings with multiple floors.
Escalators provide convenience and can help people if they have luggage or other goods with them that might be difficult to carry up a set of stairs. Elevators take this even further and are sometimes specifically designed to move cargo. They can also help disabled people access different floors of a building.
HVAC systems can ensure a comfortable temperature in any building. This can be essential in all kinds of environments to make sure the conditions are suitable. Any building where people are working, such as an office, needs to be at a reasonable temperature for both the comfort and the well-being of those inside.
In Illinois, the temperature can reach over 80°F in the summer and go below 10°F in the winter. Commercial buildings require reliable HVAC systems to help maintain a suitable indoor temperature when the conditions outside are at their most extreme.
For an HVAC system to work at maximum efficiency, it should be planned out with all other aspects of a building in mind. We ensure each system we design is specifically catered to the environment it will be in. This helps improve energy efficiency while getting the most out of your system. 

Finding a Mechanical System Contractor

If you're looking for a mechanical system contractor to design the perfect HVAC system for your commercial building, Sun Mechanical Systems has got you covered. We also offer maintenance plans to help ensure your system is always in good condition, avoiding unexpected breakdowns and expensive repairs.
To organize a free consultation, click here to contact us today.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we'll spend more than 90% of our lives indoors. When you factor in the 40-plus hours spent at work each week, it's important to make the workplace as comfortable as possible. 
If you run a business, a big part of this involves investing in an energy efficient mechanical system for your workplace.
What is an energy efficient mechanical system? What are the advantages?
Keep reading to learn about the benefits of these systems, so that you can reach out to a Heating Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) company that can help you out further. 

One of the best reasons to invest in an energy-efficient mechanical system is that it'll make your company financially leaner. When you switch to a energy efficient mechanical system, you'll have lower utility bills, which reduces your company's overhead costs. 
This is particularly important for commercial businesses since they often operate around the clock in some capacity. Your heating, cooling, and ventilation often are some of the most costly parts of your building upkeep, so the savings can be significant. 

Energy efficient systems are also great for the environment. Since they use less energy, your company is taking up fewer of the earth's resources. Companies are moving toward eco-friendliness to reduce waste and to be better stewards of the planet. 
Making environmentally-friendly changes opens you up to government incentives and perks like the United States Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. 
Environment aside, you will also appreciate that eco-friendly mechanical systems protect your indoor air quality. Optimal ventilation and filtration will help people breathe cleaner air, which decreases the effects of allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. This makes for a more comfortable workplace and can decrease the number of sick days your employees take. 

​Never lose sight of the fact that your employees and staff are your biggest investment. An eco-friendly mechanical system makes your building more comfortable throughout the seasons. 
This ranks high on the list of energy efficient mechanical system benefits since your employees spend so much time on the job. It improves their quality of life in your office, which is worth every penny in the long run. 

Finally, an energy-efficient system will also give you more quality years of service. A system that is frugal with energy will be less taxed, which means fewer breakdowns and problems. 
There are several different types of mechanical systems you can invest in, so study the modes, climate zones and features, and ask your HVAC pro how many quality years you can expect from it. 

Globally, the HVAC industry has a value of $143 billion today. This means you have plenty of choices when buying a new mechanical system. The points above make it clear why an energy efficient mechanical system is the way to go. 
Now that you know all about the benefits of a mechanical system that's energy efficient, you can manage your commercial business more optimally. 
Let Sun Mechanical Systems assist you with all of your commercial HVAC needs. We serve the St. Charles area and would be proud to count you among our newest customers. Use our contact form to get in touch, or give us a call at (630)444-1774.

Most HVAC owners are unaware of how exactly their systems work. Is that new banging noise you hear something to be concerned about? What are some of the warning signs that your system is about to suffer a catastrophic failure? 
Commercial HVAC preventative maintenance is essential if you want to keep your workplace nice and comfortable. If you don't take care of it, you could be out of air conditioning for a few days and down a few thousand dollars spent on HVAC repairs. 

Here's your guide on HVAC care and why it matters.
 
Watch Your Thermostat
HVAC care begins with your thermostat. The thermostat controls your system's functions and is often the cause of some of its problems. 

For example, if you've noticed that your electricity bills are higher than usual for a particular month, it's probably because auto settings aren't working. There's a good chance your thermostat isn't telling your system to shut down.
Investing in a smart thermostat is a good way to keep tabs on your HVAC system. In addition, always replace your thermostat batteries regularly. 

Missing Refrigerant
Refrigerant is the substance responsible for cooling the air that flows through your building. If it runs low, then your system won't be able to work effectively. It'll have to work harder to provide insufficient results, resulting in higher bills. 

Failure to replace your refrigerant can cause your HVAC system to develop wear and tear more quickly. Part of your preventative maintenance is replacing your refrigerant regularly and checking for any leaks. 

Clean Your Air Filters
Air filters are responsible for keeping dirt and debris out of your system. A business in a clean environment should clean or replace its filters every three months. Failure to do so can result in a clogged system, which can cause a lot of problems. 

For one, clogs increase your energy consumption because the system has to work harder to pull air through them. As a result, these clogs will lead to inadequate heating and cooling. 

Even if your system continues to work well, the dust and debris it catches will re-circulate throughout your home. 

Get Regular HVAC Maintenance
Accessing all parts of your HVAC system is difficult, especially when that includes ductwork that snakes its way around your building. One of the best things you can do is hire regular HVAC maintenance to check on every part of it. 
An HVAC company can make small repairs, look at the conditions of your ductwork, and teach you how to take care of your system. They're also the ones who will know for sure if and when you need to replace your HVAC system. 

Commercial HVAC Preventative Maintenance Specialists

Preventative Maintenance Specialist
Commercial HVAC preventative maintenance is a challenge to do on your own. Your company and employees likely don't have the necessary experience or training to address certain issues. That's why you call in an expert. 

Sun Mechanical Systems has over 60 years of combined experience in the Chicagoland HVAC market. We specialize in Commercial systems of all kinds. Reach out to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our services. 

​Did you know that John Gorrie's patent for an ice-making machine was granted in 1851, which laid the foundation for modern HVAC systems?
Commercial HVAC systems have come a long way since then and are deemed a necessity for most buildings, but specifically commercial buildings. Having a reliable system is crucial for the comfort of staff and employees. Keep reading to find out when to replace your commercial HVAC system.

Costly Repairs
If your HVAC system is constantly in need of maintenance and repairs, it might be time for a replacement. A good measure is if your repairs start costing about as much as half a new unit. Instead of spending money on repairs, you could rather use that money to invest in a newer and better HVAC system.
You can also gain peace of mind by scheduling an HVAC maintenance service. This will ensure that your HVAC is in tip-top shape and reduce the risk of an unpleasant surprise in the form of system issues. Regular HVAC maintenance will also give you an indication of when it's time for a replacement.

Old Machine
While modern HVAC systems are durable, after ten years, some of the major components start to deteriorate depending on how often they are used (and how often maintenance gets done). 
If your system is more than ten years old, there is also a higher chance that it uses R-22 refrigerant. R-22 is an ozone-depleting refrigerant that is extremely harmful to the environment and has since been deemed a prohibited refrigerant. So upgrading your system will reduce your carbon footprint while also cutting down on your monthly energy bills.
 
Higher Energy Costs
If you start to notice that your utility bill is large or there is a sudden spike in the cost, your HVAC system might be to blame. Inefficient energy use is one of the most common HVAC issues that people complain about. While other issues might cause a decrease in air quality, if your system isn't efficient, you will quickly be able to tell by how much you are paying.

An inefficient system will need to work much harder and longer to produce the same results as a new system. So by having a new HVAC system installed, you'll probably end up saving money in the long run.

Know When to Replace Your Commercial HVAC System
Knowing when to replace your commercial HVAC system is a crucial aspect of owning one. While it may seem like a big investment to have a new HVAC system installed, the costs that are paired with a faulty system outweigh the cost of a new system. So instead of spending money to keep your current system working, it's worth it to invest in a new one.
Feel free to contact us for a consultation or any questions you might have about your system.