Tips To Avoid Roof Damage From Commercial Rooftop AC Units
Placing an AC unit on a commercial rooftop benefits businesses in several ways. First, it saves space that a company can use in other important ways. Second, the rooftop is also an excellent solution because air conditioning units are not generally items that enhance decors. Third, placement on the roof can give direct access to the ductwork.
However, problems from this placement may hinder these benefits. The problems include roof leaks and condensation from hvac units. There are ways to prevent these problems from occurring.
HVAC Maintenance Tips
Because the HVAC system is on the roof, it’s easy to forget that it needs regular maintenance. In fact, regular maintenance is the best way to insure the longevity of the system. It also means that the system will provide superior temperature control. Scheduled service proves paramount to keeping clients and employees happy because they feel comfortable, and in turn that helps business.
One thing that HVAC maintenance helps prevent is condensation from HVAC units. This happens when humid air encounters a colder area. One of the perfect areas for such condensation to occur is on the surface of the HVAC unit. Condensation impairs the functioning of the whole system. Maintenance can spot and clear it. If maintenance is not scheduled, the pans that collect condensation for the HVAC will more than likely rust, and result in roof leaks.
Roof Leaks
Roof Leaks can severely damage a roof underneath the HVAC system, and if this goes unnoticed for a long time, it will result in both exterior and interior damage. The HVAC system itself actually affects the roof via penetration, because of weight. Any sort of water damage will most certainly add to the penetration, and wind-up inside the office. This leakage can damage, machinery, computers, phone systems, artwork, furniture, as well as cause an unpleasant smell that permeates the building.
This type of damage costs a lot of money to repair. Maintenance helps prevents it, but if by some chance damage does occur, the best way to have HVAC repair done is with the company that works with the system all the time.
Another issue to keep in mind is when the unit was installed. The best time to install a rooftop unit is when the building is being built, because that way the construction factors that help with draining and tubing can be designed and built into the original structure. Adding a HVAC to an existing roof is not always easy. An incompatible roof design and improper installation are two of the biggest reasons for leaks and overall costly damage. This is why a dependable service must be hired. Experienced technicians know how to prevent membrane tears and wind uplift that might impair the unit.
As long as a commercial HVAC customer takes the time to learn about the roof and how to prep it for a new unit, there should be no trouble. Simple HVAC maintenance can help prevent serious damage, but if any does occur, HVAC repair is always possible.