Proper care and maintenance of an HVAC Rooftop Unit (RTU) is critical, and it can save thousands of dollars over the life of the unit. Although a Rooftop Unit is out of sight, don't put it out of your mind. Too often Rooftop Units are ignored until something goes wrong.
Don't neglect the Rooftop Units on your building. Care for your unit today, to prevent an array of expensive problems in the future.
Keeping a Maintenance Schedule
If a Rooftop Unit fails or isn't working properly, it can affect
your entire business.
Ineffective and improper heating and cooling temperaturesUncomfortable work environmentMechanical failureExpensive heating/cooling billsExpensive service calls and repair bills
Seven Simple Maintenance Tips
Rooftop unit maintenance can be simplified in 7 easy-to-follow steps. Each step is critical to maintain the integrity of your HVAC system. Plus, maintaining a care schedule will allow you to get to know your units. Once you connect yourself with the care and maintenance of your HVAC units, you will become more aware of its operating system.
1. Inspect air filters each month
Clean filters are essential to proper air flow. A dirty or blocked air filter will obstruct the unit's air flow process. Replacing the air filters on a regular basis will keep the unit functioning at optimal standards and reduce deterioration of other components.
2. Inspect blower, wheel motor and housing
A dirty blower will reduce airflow and cause damage to the unit. Inspect the wheel housing and the motor for damage, dirt and grime accumulation and imbalance within the system. When inspecting the blower, verify that fan blades are working properly, moving freely and that they are not damaged. When inspecting the blower, inspect the belt. The belt should be inspected each month, and replaced annually at minimum.
3. Inspect all moving parts and accessories
Make sure the belts, pulleys and bearing are working fluidly. Look for signs of cracking, fraying and play in the belt. Also, make sure the bearings are properly lubricated to reduce friction within the motor.
4. Inspect coils and drain lines
Dirty coils obstruct airflow and reduce the ability to transfer heat. Drain pans and condensate lines should be inspected and cleaned if required. Frequent cleaning of drain pans is imperative to healthy Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).
5. Inspect economizer every year
Inspect the ventilation and perform a once-over of the entire duct-work setup. Verify that the dampers, sensors and actuator are all in optimal working order.
6. Inspect electrical components
Check all voltage connections. Make sure the connections are tight and there is no evidence of a burn around them. Look for any frayed wires and corroded connection sites. Test the voltage and make sure the connections are not imbalanced. Verify that the difference between the highest and lowest voltage doesn't exceed 4%. The motor, electrical systems and unit components all need to be inspected and tested. It is important to check the amperage during this step. Amperage should not exceed 10%.
7. Check operation at the start of each season
Make sure to inspect the unit prior to the start of each critical season, including the refrigerant charge. After you have inspected, replaced and repaired the necessary components, make sure each part of the unit is operating within the manufacturer's recommendations and properly reassembled.