When to Repair or Replace Packaged Rooftop Units
Your rooftop packaged system, or flat roof HVAC system, provides heating, cooling, and ventilation services that keep your commercial utility costs reasonable. Heating and cooling centralization makes the system less costly to repair compared to traditional systems with multiple units, while ductwork that keeps warm and cool air flowing downward contributes to lower monthly energy costs. Here, review signs indicating it’s time to call your local
HVAC contractor for repairs or a complete system overhaul.
Repair
Request repair services from your HVAC contractor if your system is under 10 years old, as the average lifespan for rooftop packaged systems is between 15 and 20 years. Maintenance records also provide repair versus replacement clues—for example, if the system has undergone yearly inspections that include cleaning and part replacement, it probably only needs minor repairs or is dealing with a related efficiency issue such as leaking ductwork.
If it’s an older system in relatively good condition, your HVAC contractor may recommend efficiency upgrades over a full-scale replacement, such as installing variable speed fan control, remote monitoring, fault detection, and modulating compressors.
Replace
Replace a rooftop packaged system that’s over 15 years old to avoid costly repair services and related headaches. Older systems typically experience issues such as operation difficulties, frequent part breakdowns, and energy inefficiency.
Yours may have a cracked or corroded heat exchanger from years of incorrect combustion or loosened or broken belts from excessive wear. If the condenser coil has not received regular cleaning and inspection, it may have sustained irreparable damage. Your HVAC contractor will check these and other parts to determine whether a replacement is best.
Again, an older system generally benefits from replacement services since it is already nearing its expiration date. Replacing an old system with an energy-efficient rooftop packaged system offers benefits such as tax reductions and utility company incentives in addition to lower monthly bills, as well as upgrades that increase indoor comfort, such as better humidity control.
Whether it’s time to repair or replace your rooftop packaged system, count on our HVAC contractors at Lindbergh Commercial Services. Our team has served the Metro Saint Louis, MO, area since 2006, providing reliable commercial services and products, including walk-in coolers and freezers, and extended warranties. Call (314) 731-0404 today to schedule an appointment or visit us online to learn more about how we’ll help your business.
