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.

The subzero temperatures of the Illinois winter are finally behind us. With St. Charles, IL temperatures heading up to 56°F in April, it's the perfect time to turn your attention to your commercial HVAC system.

Your furnace has had a workout over the winter and your AC has been lying dormant. A little spring maintenance will ensure that you can rely on them both to keep your workers comfortable over the year ahead.
Let's look at a few essential jobs to schedule for HVAC spring maintenance.

Clean Your Filters
Air filters ensure that the air you pump around your facility is clean. They remove allergens and pollutants from the air. If they get dirty and clogged, your HVAC system has to work harder and will be less energy efficient.
If they're not cleaned regularly, you may find your employees start to suffer from allergies and respiratory illnesses. While HVAC filters are not enough to protect your workers from COVID, the EPA advises that they can help. 
Every spring, you should check and clean filters. Also, clean the area around your furnace to keep your filters free from dust.

Check The Outdoor Condenser Unit 
No machinery likes to be stood unused for any length of time. Before you fire up your AC to check it's working, head outside and check the condenser unit. 
Remove any protective covers you put on before the winter. Check the insulation is intact and in good condition. Take the opportunity to remove any dirt and debris that have built up over the winter.
Also, make sure that the unit panels haven't sustained any damage. If they have, do not operate the system. Call in an HVAC contractor to assess and correct the damage. 

Check Your Grills and Fire It Up
If everything inside and out is looking OK, it's time for a little housekeeping. 
Inspect all the vents and grills and remove any dirt and dust that have built up. Check the condensate line is attached securely, so that condensation can run away safely.
You're now ready to give it a test drive, preferably when your workers are not there so you don't freeze them. If you're not happy with the level of cooling, call in the pros.

Schedule an HVAC Maintenance Service
It's a good idea to schedule an HVAC maintenance service during the spring. This will help to identify any HVAC problems and correct them before the hot weather of summer arrives.
They'll check your whole system and look at the wear and tear on parts that regularly fail. These include:

• Belts
• Capacitors
• Fuses
• Contactors
• Fan motor
• Pilot light

If any of these goes while the system is running, you could be facing a major HVAC repair. A maintenance service can help you handle these issues before they cause knock-on problems.
Having a maintenance plan with a local HVAC contractor is a wise investment. This means you'll never miss a service and you'll get repairs done at a lower cost.

Spring Maintenance Could Save You Big Time
Spring Maintenance of your HVAC system could save you thousands down the line. Your system will run more efficiently. Plus, you'll be able to replace worn-out parts before they cause damage.

Call in Sun Mechanical Systems for outstanding Chicagoland HVAC servicing. We have maintenance plans to suit every building. Call us at  630.444.1774 or schedule a free consultation online. 

Keeping your commercial properties protected from the elements requires regularly scheduled HVAC maintenance. However, your systems could be a problem waiting to happen without adequate servicing. Find out why regular care is so critical to extending the life of your HVAC and your peace of mind.

Maintenance Decreases Emergencies 
Whether your commercial building is for cold storage or business fronts are operating out of the property, maintaining proper heating and cooling is imperative. The safety and security of your assets are on the line when the temperatures rise or fall to dangerous levels.
 
Without regular maintenance, emergency calls are more likely to occur. While HVAC companies are readily available, emergency calls often cost far more than routine maintenance and only address one issue rather than the full diagnostic panel. 

Maintenance Improves Air 
You might think air quality doesn’t matter if your commercial property is only used for storage or transport carryover, but it does. Air quality is especially critical if your commercial space has people.
 
When HVAC units are not regularly maintained, build-ups of dust, dirt, mold, debris, or any other harmful deposits can form in the system. Especially during cold and flu season, and in light of recent events, having clean and clear air circulation is of utmost importance for safety. 

Maintenance Increases Lifespan
Regular maintenance ensures your HVAC system is clean and in good shape for the upcoming season. For many commercial buildings, twice a year is the preferred scheduling over once a year; twice provides peace of mind before the peak of each big weather season. The lifespan of your system is extended thanks to regular cleaning, lubing, and careful attention to detail.

Maintenance Saves Money 
Regular servicing creates fewer emergencies, improves air quality, and increases the lifespan of your HVAC system, but the combined benefits save you money on the maintenance of your property.
 
For more information on scheduling your next HVAC maintenance appointment or for a free consultation, contact Sun Mechanical Systems today.

Your commercial heating and cooling system is critical to your company's comfort and safety. At Sun Mechanical Systems, we understand the importance of finding a trustworthy contractor to handle your HVAC system.

Look for Experience
When looking for a contracting company, you need to find one that understands commercial HVAC systems. A residential HVAC system is different because a home has less space and is less demanding on the system. On the other hand, your commercial HVAC system has a larger area to heat and cool, and you need to manage the comfort of your staff and visitors, more than just your family. You do not want to use a contractor who only knows how to service residential systems.

Look for Comprehensive Services
Your HVAC may need various services, including maintenance, emergency repairs, and installations. Do not think only of the services you need right now, but the future services you may need. Look for a technician who can do it all.

Look for Fair Pricing
In addition to a contractor that can handle your HVAC system. Look for a contractor who provides a free estimate and fair prices. The pricing should match the service you receive and the quality. When working with HVAC contractors, you deserve customer satisfaction. A contractor should be honest about the pricing and the chances of increased costs.

Look for References
What do other businesses say about the HVAC companies you've researched? Look for reputable references and find out what others say about the contractor. In addition to reviews and references, look for certifications. You may also want to look for any professional affiliations or memberships.
 
At Sun Mechanical Systems, we are NATE certified, and we understand the importance of the HVAC system to your business. We know that you can't wait for emergency services or maintenance. Contact us today to find out more about how we can repair or install your HVAC.

Winter is just a few weeks away. However, everyone in the Chicagoland area knows that the ice and snow can show up well ahead of schedule. In fact, at this point, we expect them to. To prepare your commercial HVAC system for the coming winter weather, there are three C’s that you can easily remember to check off your regular maintenance. Learn how you can do your part with the three C’s of winterizing. 

C Is for Clean 
The best thing you can do for your commercial HVAC system is schedule a routine maintenance check-up once a year, around October or November, before the big weather hits. A professional technician will come out and evaluate your system, clean any parts, and make any repairs you decide on at that time. 

C Is for Change
The second best thing you can do for your HVAC system is regularly changing your filters. Changing your filters ensures that your systems work the most efficiently at full capacity. Your HVAC can only do the job it is designed to if you provide it with the necessary means to do so. Regularly changing your filters will also decrease your utility bills and reduce wear and tear on your system.

C Is for Check
Regularly check everything. Winter can be unpredictable. Training your maintenance crew to monitor pipes and thermostats for regularity is key to proper performance and tracking your HVAC efficacy too. If your thermostats appear to be less than efficient, change them out for smart thermostats that can be remotely controlled from afar. 
 
With over 60 years of combined experience, Sun Mechanical Systems is proud to serve the Chicagoland area. We offer commercial HVAC servicing and maintenance in addition to design and build services to meet your diverse needs. For more information, contact us today for a free consultation.

It's no secret that the Chicagoland area seems to have a penchant for the winter season. While the blankets of white sparkly snow are familiar enough that we pull on our boots and pay it little mind, getting your commercial building in proper order isn't quite the same. To keep your facility safe and operable all season long, you must prep your commercial building for the coming winter.

Schedule HVAC System Maintenance 
Your HVAC system is likely running full steam ahead in the summer months. Schedule your yearly HVAC maintenance to complete a systems check in the fall. Identifying any issues before temperatures drop is the best practice for keeping operations in order; this includes:
 

• Checking and changing air filters
• Inspecting and repairing broken parts
• Reviewing vent work for leaks or holes that might be damaging efficiency
• Cover all outdoor air-conditioning units that will go unused during the winter

 
It can also let you know if you need to repair any issues that have popped up during spring and summer.

Inspect Roofing and Make Repairs 
Before winter storms hit, make sure you schedule a roof inspection. Inspectors will be able to detect any leaks and internal damage that could wreak havoc on your commercial property in the winter months. One severe storm could damage the integrity of your roof from the weight of snow and snowmelt. Identifying any structural damage or leaks early on will ensure the roof is structurally sound and capable of withstanding another winter.

Prevent Potential Plumbing Disasters 
Pipe freezes and flooding are the most common costly disasters on commercial properties in the winter months. Not only is it frustrating when you need to close down your business to repair those damages, but it is also costly. The average water damage claim from frozen pipes costs around $10,000 or more. To prevent any expensive repairs, having preventative measures in place is essential, including:
 

• Wrapping pipes and faucets in unheated or minimally heated areas of the property
• Testing freeze stats and valves before the weather gets too cold 
• Sealing cracks and openings near exposed pipes 
• Setting the internal thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at all times

 
Check and Update Insulation Levels 
Poor insulation causes tremendous heat loss, costing you money in utility bills and potentially causing other winter weather issues within your building. Be sure to inspect your property's insulation for any holes or compromised areas that are causing leaks; this includes weather stripping, roofs, and any other unheated areas. Additionally, check the quality of insulation levels throughout your building. Is the insulation level sufficient? Are there places that could use more insulation, or does the entire building need an update?
 
With the advancements in insulation methods, it's now possible to get blanket-style insulation, foam insulation, rigid insulation, and various other efficient, easy-to-use technologies that can help you save on heating and cooling costs.
 
To learn more about winterizing your commercial property, contact Sun Mechanical Systems. Proudly serving the Chicagoland area, Sun Mechanical specializes in commercial HVAC to meet your needs. Contact us day to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team!

As the air becomes chilly again, we know winter is just around the corner. If you haven't used your heating system since last winter, you need to ensure that it is in good condition before the colder months settle in. With maintenance and preparation, you can rest knowing that your HVAC system will not break down when you need it the most.

Begin Preventative Maintenance
When winter hits, it could take days for a maintenance contractor to repair an HVAC system when it fails. Instead of waiting for a breakdown, a professional can come to your home in advance, inspect the heat pumps, and ensure that everything is working correctly. When you invest in preventative maintenance, you will have fewer bills, including lighter energy bills throughout winter. Some preventative maintenance that our professionals at Sun Mechanical can perform include:
 

• Thermostat calibration
• Debris removal
• Automatic heating schedules

 
There is a long list of maintenance that our team can perform to keep your system working efficiently throughout the winter.

Inspect the Filter
One of the first components that we check is the filter. Air filters become clogged with debris and dust, so you need to change them regularly so the air can cycle freely. If you have a clogged filter, the air may sound louder when you turn your system on.

Inspect and Clean Ducts
If you can't remember the last time you cleaned your ducts, you may need to have them cleaned as soon as possible. Over time, dust builds up inside the ducts and decreases airflow. We have the right tools to clean out your ducts and to ensure you have no leaks. If you have leaks, it can affect the efficiency of the system.
 
At Sun Mechanical Systems, we have over 60 years of experience in the HVAC industry. If you need high-quality products, winterization, or maintenance, we can help. Contact us today for more information on winter prep for your HVAC system.