Clean your ducts to take full advantage of efficient HVAC installations
Low airflow in your HVAC system can significantly impact its performance and ability to maintain consistent levels of comfort in the building. Maintenance teams should ensure that return filters and upturned vents are properly sized and cleaned prior to installation of a next gen RTU system. Without these measures, your efficient HVAC system may not perform as expected, driving up energy bills and disrupting your business.
During the 2024–2025 heating season, the Next Gen RTU team monitored a heat pump rooftop unit (RTU) at the company headquarters for Room & Board. During this field study, the team used a power meter to track total electrical use and data loggers to measure temperatures and system behavior.
After evaluating the data, the team found that the unit was not meeting its expected efficiency specifications. The team inspected the unit and found that the supply vents faced upward and had not been cleared of dust during installation of the new system. This created a blockage to the airflow. The vents were cleaned, and the system ran at full performance capabilities.
Variables to consider before installing a commercial HVAC system:
- Did your team verify proper airflow following RTU installation?
- Are vents oriented in the correct direction to facilitate the flow of air?
- Are ducts and vents clean of debris and build up?
- Are your maintenance and facility teams equipped with what they need to perform these checks?
The installation of a high-efficiency, next gen RTU is a strategic investment for your commercial building space, and you should maximize the benefits of your new system. Airflow issues in your duct system can hamper that return on your investment. Fortunately, there are straightforward best practices you and your team can take right after installation to ensure your space and your bottom-line benefit from the system from the start and throughout its lifetime.
Contact us to learn more or share your experience.