Sometimes a new HVAC system is needed for your home, particularly if the system itself is getting too old and worn out. It could not be heating up or cooling down properly, or the parts needed to repair it are no longer being manufactured. Whatever the reason, there may come a point when you need to get a new HVAC system.

What type of system would be best for your needs though? The ones we’re going to cover in today’s article are the most common types you’ll see in the market. Here are the pros and cons of each so you know which is which and whether one will suit your needs the most.

1. Split Systems

Heating and cooling split systems are the most common type of HVAC system you’ll see. As the name implies, the entire system is split between two main units, one for cooling and one for heating. This is the system that consists of both indoor and outdoor units, which you have already recognized. A cooling system is set up outside, which uses compressors, coils, and refrigerant to cool air and a fan to blow out the hot air. These are the large air conditioning units placed outside of homes that run frequently in the summer months.

The heater part of the system is usually located in the basement or other storage area, and gas is used to heat up the home. This hot air is either dispersed by a fan or circulated via an evaporator. A traditional thermostat is used to manage the temperature, and usually keeps it at your desired level.

Pros:

• These units come packaged with purifiers and humidifiers so you’re comfortable no matter what the weather is.
• These are the most generally used systems for homes that aren’t forced to cater to specific needs or environmental factors.
• Most split systems are built to be noiseless, meaning the only sound you’ll hear is the air being circulated indoors.
• Split systems are attractive when it comes to placement because they’re unobtrusive enough. You can have them out of the way and still feel their heating and cooling effects. Even if you do see them, their build is a sleek and modern one.

Cons:

• Split systems are incredibly expensive to install from the get-go. The long-term savings you see after time has passed makes up for the initial cost; however, it is still an investment needing to be made and not everyone can afford it (especially if it turns out to be the wrong system for the job!).
• It can take a while for a licensed HVAC person to come and install it in your home. It absolutely has to be a professional who installs it, both for your safety’s sake as well as to validate your warranty. If this kind of a job is needed in the middle of summer, that’s an extra cost on top of it already!
• Split systems are only best suitable for larger homes, and they need to be positioned within 30 feet of each other since that’s the length of tubing that connects them together. This means if you’re in an apartment building or you live in an exceptionally tall building, this will not work out.
• Though the indoor units don’t make any noise, the outdoor units generate a lot of it. If you live in a highly populated area, this system won’t do since you need to be considerate of your neighbours and respect their need for a quiet space.

2. Hybrid Split Systems

Hybrid split systems are similar to split ones, but there are some key differences worth noting. These systems can react to changing temperatures and then adjust their temperatures automatically when heating up or cooling down a home. It combines a furnace with a heat pump rather than an air conditioner, saving fuel resources in the process. Hybrid heat can also work together with both gas and electric systems.

Pros:

• Homeowners can decide how they want their home to be heated up, gas or electric—the choice is there.
• Hybrid systems work best in mild climates where homeowners can take advantage of electric heat during months when it’s not too cold.
• The hybrid system uses traditional ducts and a thermostat, so it provides all the benefits of a split system but with an additional option to conserve energy and lessen up the cost of utility bills.

Cons:

• Though hybrid systems can provide efficient heat in mild and brief winters, It’s not very good at extracting heat from the outside air. So when the temperature falls below freezing one winter, your home could be potentially left chilly and uncomfortable.
• A hybrid split system is not a 100% renewable solution to reducing the carbon footprint. The hybrid system still uses boilers that rely on fossil fuels in order to function.
• You may see a difference in lower energy costs in the long term, but the higher upfront cost may be unrealistic to you as a homeowner. If you plan to move from your home in the next few years, a hybrid system is not your best financial option.

3. Mini Split (Duct Free)

A mini-split or duct-free HVAC system is unique in that it has large upfront costs, but the benefits for certain applications and needs make up for it a great deal. These types of systems come in the form of individual units in each room, providing you with great independent control. The units are typically mounted on walls indoors and attached to an outdoor compressor.

Pros:

• They’re best for heating up or cooling down individual rooms, making them ideal units in garages, additions, and/or additional buildings.
• They’re easy to install.
• They allow you independent control of the unit.
• They’re great for commercial purposes, such as hotels or venues, and for apartments or smaller homes since they allow tenants to control individual temperatures.
• They keep exterior rooms from being heated and only do so for individual rooms, so it’s conserving more energy in the process.

Cons:

• They’re highly expensive, both to install and repair if a part is broken or worn down.
• The sight of a unit is more obvious than other forms of HVAC units (can be a problem if you don’t want to notice them day in and out).
• The systems require intensive and regular cleaning and maintenance, and it’s more important to keep up with that since the total cost of repairs and replacements is also very expensive.
• Its ability to use less power is both a pro and a con; compared to central air, this system may not provide the same level of consistency you may be looking for.

To sum up, there are a great deal several types of HVAC systems, but now that you know a little more about these systems you can make a more informed purchasing decision.

Financing options are available via SNAP if you’re mainly concerned about the initial cost. When you’re ready for your new system and you want professionals to handle the installation process, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Winter is the season of the furnace in some homes. Even if the snow has melted, things can get pretty cold in BC’s Lower Mainland until the spring months roll in for the year.

Have you ever looked at your furnace and thought to yourself, “I have questions but don’t know where to turn”? Starting here in this online article might be a good place to start if so! Even if you’ve owned a furnace for years, it’s a good idea to refresh your memory about this sort of knowledge. And if you’re new to owning a furnace in your home, then this is all the more reason to read further.

With all of that in mind, here are our answers to five frequently asked questions about furnaces, whether they’re electric or gas.

1. Why does my furnace need regular maintenance?

All machines need to be maintained regularly, and that’s pretty much what a furnace is! It’s a machine built to heat up a home’s space. Much like cars, furnaces need to be serviced every so often so that early wear and tear problems can be detected sooner than later. Plus, it prevents your energy bills from skyrocketing to unaffordable levels, and instead of facing catastrophic failures (which go hand in hand with expenses), you keep the unit operating at a normal level.

For best results, always refer to the furnace’s manufacturer manual and specifications during your own maintenance tasks to ensure your furnace has a long and safe lifespan.

2. How many BTUs does my home need?

There are two ways to determine the number of British Thermal Units (BTUs) needed to heat your home. A rough way to do it is to divide your home’s square footage by 0.28. However, a more accurate calculation can be made; determine the amount of heat loss your home experiences. Then, choose a furnace to compensate for that loss.

3. What’s the best type of furnace to buy?

This one’s a tougher question, because there are so many variables that need to be considered before you go ahead and make a purchasing decision. The most common furnaces you’ll find in British Columbia are natural gas and electric ones, and as of today a natural gas furnace is less expensive to run. However, the real answer is that the best furnace is the one that’s right for your home. This has to mean that your furnace should produce the right amount of BTUs, and it’s capable of circulating the warm air throughout your home.

Anytime you need a new furnace, or you’re looking to buy, you should always consult with an expert. That way, you don’t overbuy or under-buy the furnace and you find something that’s truly based on your needs.

4. When do I need to replace my furnace?

The average furnace can last between 15-20 years, assuming you are providing it proper and regular maintenance. A high-efficiency furnace can last for 12-14 years on average. If your home is over 10 years old, however, you may need to do your due diligence on your furnace and how it’s operating. Carefully monitor it daily when it’s running, and take note of any signs it’s wearing down.

5. What are some signs that my furnace needs to be replaced?

Every furnace model is different, but in most cases these are the most telling signs to be aware of:

• Little/no heat being produced
• Odd smells, like sulfur or rotten eggs
• Consistent pilot light failures
• Severely delayed ignition
• A significant amount of corrosion

Any one of these means a replacement is in order rather than repairs (the latter will end up being more expensive than it’s worth!).

Still have questions?

Our HVAC technicians are available to answer all of your most burning questions about furnaces (pun intended). You can reach out to us on social media or e-mail and send us a message, or give us a call. Let us know if you’d like to book an appointment in the meantime! At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

Whether you’re in the high or low season at your business, it’s guaranteed that any commercial refrigeration being used daily will have an urgent need to tend to. You can prevent major breakdowns from occurring with regular maintenance before and during the busiest months, and make sure both your customers and staff are happy too.

Here are seven good maintenance tips for commercial refrigeration to keep in mind. You can add these to your schedule if needed to stay organized and keep an eye on potential problems that may build up over time.

1. Clean both the inside and outside

One of the biggest reasons we get calls in to help fix commercial fridges and coolers, etc. is because the business or staff in question forgot that like the floors and everything else, the cooling units need to be cleaned too. Clean out any spills or stains inside of the units, and clean the outside to prevent exterior spills from making their way to the parts needed for a fridge to function properly. Keep an eye out for excess moisture, which also needs to be wiped up.

You will have to clean the floor underneath the refrigeration too. Doing so will prevent bacteria and other things like mold from contaminating your food. It will also help you control dirt and dust while maintaining the condenser coils, which is the next task you have to do.

2. Clean up condenser coils regularly

Ideally you should clean this component in your commercial refrigeration at least once every six months. You may be wondering how often this needs to be done, but really the answer is when they’re dirty—that’s it. Once every six months is only the standard recommendation as well; the number may change to more frequently depending on your circumstances.

This is why you need to check on your business’s refrigeration regularly and clean the freezer coils to ensure there is no debris clogging things up. Build-up will force the evaporator to work harder than it should and thus it’ll take longer to cool the inside. It could even lead to calling in a technician for service on reducing strain from the evaporator’s motor.

3. Clean up tubing and drain pans

Larger commercial refrigeration units and freezers tend to attract bigger amounts of slime and sludge formation, which can cause units to freeze up and stop working properly. This sludge tends to form the most frequently inside of tubing and the drain pans. If these pans overflow with sludge and moisture, it’ll create a nasty and pungent smell throughout the kitchen. Clogging in the tubing is also a problem, because it will cause an overflow in the defrost system and that will leak onto the floor.

To prevent these problems, clean the tubing and drain pans. You can clean out the pan using a vinegar solution or warm water and soap at least once a month. Check on the tubing every few months to avoid significant blockages from occurring. Water spots or calcium on the exterior of the hoses may build up, so if you notice these you can prevent future wear and tear by cleaning them with soap and water.

4. Inspect the refrigeration’s door gaskets (seals)

Torn or split door gaskets, or seals, happen over time the more frequently the refrigeration unit is used. It works hard enough to cool down the conditioned space. Gaskets that become torn or split can lead to warm air seeping into the fridge and spoiling food in the process. Food debris in these worn out gaskets can also lead to bacteria and mold build-up.

Every so often it’s a good idea to inspect all four sides of the commercial refrigeration unit’s door gaskets. Check to see if rips or tears are occurring, and make sure these actually seal well on all four sides of the door. Gasket cleaning should be very gentle, using mild soapy water; this will help remove any food debris.

5. Inspect the evaporator coil

The evaporator coil, just like the condenser coil, is a vital part of your commercial refrigeration units. This part is located by the evaporator fan and helps absorb heat as the warm air passes through the system, which then helps cool down the interior.

This part needs to be kept clean too. Keep this coil clear and clean consistently and avoid cramming the interior of the fridge or freezer, with a lot of items, especially if they’re hot. Blocking airflow to the evaporator coil will cause it to freeze up, which then leads to both a rise in cabinet temperature and water leakage.

6. Keep the ice maker clean

If your commercial refrigeration comes with an ice maker, this system will also need to be kept clean. Leaving it alone for too long will result in greater bacteria and mold accumulation, which leads to health problems for everyone (especially your customers!). No one wants to find dirty ice in their drinks, so take the time to clean it out.

There are a lot of steps to be taken for this part, which we’ve outlined in a previous blog post. If you still find you’re having difficulty with this step, there’s no harm in calling in a professional technician to clean this part for you instead.

7. Replace the air filter

Yes, just like an air conditioner or furnace, commercial refrigeration comes with air filters. This is why we keep insisting on keeping everything clean, because a large buildup can prevent air from ventilating the fridge or freezer properly. How does buildup develop, you ask? Simple: the grease and dust from fryers and griddles.

To take care of the air filter for your fridge, remove any dust or loose debris with a powerful shop vacuum. Clean up any thick grease buildup with a degreasing solution. You may want to refer to the unit’s manual for more tips on how to properly degrease the filter without causing damage.

Speaking of damage, that’s another thing that too much grease and buildup can cause. If you’re degreasing and notice any splits in the air filter from the debris, then replace the filter immediately.

Still experiencing problems?

There are some issues that these DIY fixes cannot correct and will require the aid of a professional HVAC-R technician:

• Troubles with electrical connections
• The unit isn’t cold enough, or there’s no air flow
• There’s no power to the commercial refrigeration
• The compressor is not running, or it’s short cycling
• The fan motor is out
• The evaporator coil is iced up
• The refrigerant charge needs to be checked up on
• A scheduled maintenance check-up and cleaning for specific components, such as the ice maker

We service commercial fridges, walk-in coolers, walk-in freezers, and ice machines in addition to HVAC systems, so get in touch with us if any of the above list applies to your situation. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

You may be thinking we’re crazy for suggesting you check your air conditioning in winter, but in reality it’s not that bad of an idea. We get a lot of calls regarding air conditioners that break down on the hottest days of summer, and a lot of the problems that arise from them could have easily been avoided in the first place.

We want our customers to stay cool when it’s hot out, and stay warm when it’s freezing out. Following these DIY inspection tips for your A/C even when and if it’s snowing out can help you detect potential problems that may arise, and even give yourself something to do if you’re snowed in.

Step 1: Check the Air Filter

The air filter is the part of an air conditioner that can suffocate it when it gets dirty. The dirt layers that can build up if left uncleaned will limit the amount of air that your A/C unit breathes in. Without adequate airflow, there are a whole bunch of problems that can arise and eventually lead to a total system failure.

If this sounds like the state of your air filter, clean it up yourself (you can use a vacuum cleaner) or replace it if needed. Don’t forget to place the filter back correctly when you’re finished.

Step 2: Investigate the Thermostat’s Settings

It’s very easy to forget that a thermostat on an A/C unit can typically be switched from ‘Heat’ to ‘Cool’ quite easily. Be sure to switch to this setting once you’re ready to test the airflow quality, power, and sounds of your air conditioner before turning it onto full blast for the hotter season. (More on testing later.)

If your thermostat has to be set to exact degrees rather than ‘Heat’ or ‘Cold’, then set it to the typical temperature in summer which is 25 degrees Celsius (78 degrees Fahrenheit). That way you won’t be putting too much pressure on your unit when you’re trying to cool off. Turning the thermostat down full blast will only cause more problems as opposed to keeping you cool.

Step 3: Check the Outdoor Unit (If Applicable)

This step will depend on where you live and what kind of air conditioner you own. For this example, we’re going to use central A/C which does often require an outdoor unit and/or heat pump to function properly. It’s easy to forget that you have to take care of this part of your air conditioning even in winter, because of the weather. Ice can form on the outside and when it melts, make its way into the interior of the unit. So you need to ensure that if this unit isn’t already being protected, you get rid of the ice covering the outside.

Other objects that can interfere with the efficiency of an outdoor unit are basically any outside things that can intrude on its space. There needs to be about 3 feet of space surrounding your unit outside to ensure no debris interferes with the air quality your unit produces. Make sure there are no objects such as branches hanging out within that perimeter, and brush off all the dirt on the unit’s exterior. If there’s a thicker layer of dirt, you may need to call a professional technician over for a deep cleaning.

Step 4: Inspect the Circuit Breaker

Sometimes the circuit breaker is the reason why an air conditioner won’t run or switch on. This fix is a simple one. Find your home’s main electrical panel (usually kept in the basement). Look for any circuit breakers that are not in the On position. Do you have any breakers that are clearly labeled? If so, look for one that specifically reads A/C or air conditioner. If the A/C’s circuit breakers have tripped, then push that breaker firmly into the On position. Try running your air conditioner again once that’s finished.

If for any reason the circuit breakers trip again upon switching your A/C on however, don’t try to switch the circuit breaks on again. This is a sign of an electrical problem that only your HVAC technician should look into and fix. Call yours if you make this discovery.

Step 5: Test, test, test

It’s a good idea to give your air conditioner a test run before you use it for the summer months. Once it’s switched on, walk your way through the entire house. Why? Because you’re going to be checking for any spots where the following is taking place:

• All supply air vents—both the return and supply kinds—are not being blocked or covered. Not even in unused rooms.
• No funny noises are coming from your A/C while it’s running, even when you’re not in the same room.
• The circuit breakers aren’t being tripped as soon as the A/C is switched on (see our previous point).

It’s also a good idea to run some tests after the aforementioned tasks, such as cleaning the filter, have taken place. This will ensure the test is a success and your air conditioner is ready to go when you need it!

Still having problems?

If you’ve performed all of these tasks in our article but then discover you still have an underlying problem with your air conditioner, it could be one of the following:

• Electrical problems
• Dirty or clogged air condenser
• No or minimal coolant in the unit
• Compressor problems

For all of these problems and more, give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s a new year and a whole new decade! 2020 is full of expectation all around. There are new technologies being developed for homeowners and HVAC technicians alike, and new trends emerging within the industry. With this in mind, how about we have a little fun this time? Here are a few predictions we’re making for 2020 that involve the HVAC industry and where it’s headed.

More Green Homes

Energy efficiency has been the name of the game since the last two decades took place. Our environment and caring for it has never been more important than right now. To accommodate this lifestyle and approach, more homes are being developed as green—meaning greener technology will be the forefront of the HVAC industry. Gone will be the days of relying on non-renewable resources; we’re heading in that direction, but in certain areas than others, we’ve got a long way to go.

This year will be when we really up the ante on going green and taking more responsibility on ourselves to ensure we’re not harming the environment while also trying to stay warm or cool. New homes will be built with this sense of urgency in mind, and use only the highest developed and energy efficient HVAC systems during construction.

More Mobile Usage = More New Technology to Learn About

We all use our mobile phones these days to access information, buy products, and even control things when we’re absent from our homes—and yes, that does include our HVAC! With this increased reliance on mobile usage, it means there will be more new HVAC technology and controls to learn about. These new developments will make controlling your heat and cooling easier than ever, while ensuring you’re living at a comfortable temperature year-round.

There are already digital thermostats installed on phones that enable you to turn up or down the heat or air conditioning without your having to be at home to do so. We predict that this will be applied to every home that has one; after all, it goes hand in hand with the prediction on more green homes, because with this kind of technology, it’s guaranteed that no heating or cooling energy resource is going to waste.

Training and HVAC Careers Will Boom

All of this new technology means there will be new training too. According to one source, the demand for HVAC equipment is predicted to increase by 6% throughout 2020. With that kind of growth, the demand for skills across companies will grow too. This means that more HVAC companies will be looking to invest in more training and HVAC skill programs while they adapt to the changes technology is bringing to us all. In addition, since there will always be a place for HVAC in our homes and lives, we’ll be seeing a lot more students enrolling in such programs and accepting it as a long-term career choice—again, thanks to the new technology being introduced.

HVAC Companies Will Still be People-centric

“What do you mean by that?” you’re probably wondering. Simply put, we are not going to stop putting aside our customers’ needs because of the latest trend in tech or upswing in metrics. If you need financing to better afford your heating and cooling solutions, we have a solution. If you need great customer service and a properly installed HVAC system, we’ve got the licenses and skills in place for the job. New technology will be introduced, but our dedication to our customers will never be replaced by it. You can expect that great sense of customer service from us in 2020 and beyond—that’s a prediction that’s going to come true!

Let’s see whether the other predictions come true as the year goes on. In the meantime, we’re available for all of your heating and cooling needs, so go ahead and give us a call. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

If you’re looking to get a natural gas fireplace installed in your Abbotsford home either now or next year, you’re not the only one. Gas fireplaces create ambiance and warmth with a simple button press on the remote control or a flip of the switch. They are both beautiful and convenient to homeowners.

We typically offer gas fitting as opposed to installation for fireplaces, but regardless it matters that you be safe about them because not knowing can result in some big mistakes! Whether you’re looking to buy a new fireplace and have some questions, or you want to know if you should switch to a different resource, here are some tips before you go get a new gas fireplace.

1. Location

Where do you want to install the fireplace? If you have an existing one, it may be best to look at getting an insert fireplace. These allow you to fit the new fireplace into the existing space. If, however, you want to have a new fireplace built into an exterior wall, only look for linear built-in fireplaces. These ones are best for homes that don’t have an existing fireplace or chimney.

2. Size

Does your home already have natural gas space heating? If so, your gas fireplace doesn’t need to be a powerful one. A professional can give you some advice on the BTU (British thermal unit) necessary to complement your existing heating system.

You also need to think on something very hard: are you really wanting a fireplace for the heat? Or are you going about it for looks alone? You need to consider whether the appearance of a fireplace matters more to you than heating performance. If you want to go with a fireplace purely for aesthetics, an appropriate choice would include a lower heating capacity. If, however, you want to use your fireplace for heating up your home’s space, a greater heating output is needed.

Once the former decision has been made, measure the space you are planning to fill in. Decide on which physical dimensions are going to be right for the room’s layout and size.

3. Style

Every homeowner has their own idea of style, and a fireplace is no exception. If your home doesn’t have an existing fireplace to fill, you can choose any corner or wall where you want to have the new gas fireplace installed.

Many styles are available such as rustic, traditional, grand, classical, and modern. However, the style of the fireplace matter because you don’t want it to clash with the rest of your home either. Other choices you will have to consider include colour and trim that best works with the room décor where you want it installed. At the end of the day your goal should be to find a fireplace that consists of the exact combination of performance, energy efficiency, style, and price that best suits your budget and design.

4. Features

As if there wasn’t enough to consider, here is some more! Each gas fireplace comes with its own special lineup of features. Clear-faced glass panels are still quite popular and can give the appearance of a real wood-burning fire. Ceramic glass is used in the higher-end models (i.e. expensive). This is because ceramic is tougher than tempered glass, it can radiate more heat, and it can withstand higher temperatures.

If you’re looking to heat up the room, how much heat do you want to circulate? Note that a built-in fan or blower, which comes in certain models, can sometimes be noisy. If this doesn’t sound appealing, a ceiling fan can actually work better for heat distribution in your specified room.

There are also a variety of choices on controls. Some of the more high-end fireplaces can be remote controlled on or off, and include their own timer and temperature settings. Others can have an automatic thermostat temperature control to ensure the room will never get too hot. By having such a range of control, you can both moderate your fuel usage and also improve your home’s energy efficiency in the process.

You’re ready to get your new gas fireplace! We are happy to help ensure your new appliance is installed by a licensed contractor. Give our team of professional technicians a call for all of your gas fitting needs. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!

It’s almost time for the holiday season, meaning restaurants have to go all-in with offering the best food and drinks while keeping their atmosphere pleasant and their establishment clean and safe. With so many customers booking reservations and hosting parties this time of the year, it can be all too easy for you and your staff to forget about your restaurant’s HVAC as you swing into the holiday season.

This article will help you prepare before things get too crazy and hectic.

1: Be Prepared Now, for Later

Get an inspection on your restaurant’s HVAC and refrigeration now as opposed to later. Early detection can prevent the following emergencies from happening at the worst possible time:

• Sudden breakdown during rush hours
• Clogged ice machines
• Power fluctuations
• Constant restarts and then shutdowns
• Weak airflow from ventilation
• Spoiling food and food products

Your technician team will be able to diagnose potential problem areas and then perform maintenance where required.

2: Programmable Thermostats

These are not just for residential use! Most commercial HVAC now comes with built-in programmable thermostats so that restaurants can customize the temperature in different zones. You may want to keep one in the kitchen to keep things cool, while another keeps the customers warm while they’re staying out of the cold outside. When the restaurant is closed for the night, you can ensure the thermostat is programmed to bring the temperature to a proper level—one that won’t compromise your monthly expenses.

3: Don’t Forget the Restroom

Some restaurants forget that the restroom, like the kitchen, needs to be properly ventilated (there’s a reason for the V in HVAC, after all!). Typically ventilation in the restroom tends to run all of the time, so saving energy in that regard matters. Consider the make-up air that flows from outside in, and keep the bathrooms clean to prevent lowering the air quality.

4: If It’s Not Used, Shut it Down

This may not apply to refrigeration, since you need to keep the cool air going to prevent food from spoiling. However, you don’t need HVAC turned on 24/7 because this will prove costly in the long-term. This is especially true if there are heating components in the kitchen being used when they don’t have to be. These will only generate heat that your commercial HVAC will have to neutralize. This is why it’s smarter to have a start-up and shutdown program on your thermostat (or thermostats, if you use more than one) to make sure your most valuable equipment doesn’t work overtime.

You need the money for a lot of things in your restaurant—don’t waste the energy it needs if there’s no one to use it.

5: Don’t Skip the Refrigerator Inspection

We’ve already mentioned that a lack of inspection for HVAC can result in things like food spoilage, but those can also contribute to some very unpleasant consequences of their own. If you have less product to sell, you’re going to see some very unhappy customers and thus a loss of business as a result.

Another reason to not skip a fridge inspection is that you can get service done on worn parts during the inspection. This costs less than it would to repair the part after major damage has been done. Again, sudden breakdowns are not something you want to deal with when you’ve got hungry customers present at the time it happens.

A dirty fridge will work harder to sustain the set temperature as well, which can also add up (especially if there’s more than one dirty fridge!) This is why we always recommend regular cleaning and maintenance long before any holiday rush kicks in. You don’t want to pay extra for such negligence.

Take action now on these HVAC tips! If you need an inspection service for your restaurant, call us now before the holiday rush kicks in. Doing so can prevent fridge breakdowns and other HVAC emergencies at the worst moment from happening. At Rep-Air Heating And Cooling we provide our customers with many options that will best suit your needs from heating and cooling to refrigeration. Contact us today for your complimentary quote: 1-778-728-1476 or contact@repairheatingandcooling.com and don’t forget to take a look at our website: https://repairheatingandcooling.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for free giveaways!