4 HVAC Inspection Tips for New Business Owners in Portland

4 HVAC Inspection Tips for New Business Owners in Portland

As we know, new businesses are booming in Portland! If you are a new business owner looking for a commercial property to call home, don’t forget to add an initial HVAC inspection to your checklist when visiting properties. 

Assessing pre-existing heating and cooling equipment before buying or renting can save you many headaches and costly repairs down the road. Want to learn more? Our Portland commercial heating and air conditioning experts provide inspection advice below.

The Benefits of Getting an HVAC Inspection Before You Buy, Rent, or Lease

While you might not be able to completely gauge the performance of your building’s commercial HVAC system until you see it in action, it’s still a smart idea to perform a quick inspection when looking at potential properties for your Portland business. While an assessment by a licensed commercial contractor is recommended, the following four tips can give business owners an idea of what to expect from their building’s heating and cooling equipment.

1. Perform a Visual Assessment of the Commercial Air Conditioning and Heating Equipment

While heating and cooling systems are composed of many internal components, Portland business owners can still inspect the external parts of the system. All you need to know first is where to look. 

Furnaces, air conditioners, and boilers are typically housed in basements or utility rooms. In some cases, your air conditioner could be located on the roof of the property. Look for any warning signs such as rust, external damage, or accumulated dust or debris. Pay attention to any odd noises or strange odors. If you see anything of concern, contact your Portland commercial HVAC installers and ask them for a comprehensive analysis. 

2. Determine the Heating and Cooling Unit’s Energy Rating

Modern HVAC systems will have an energy label indicating the unit’s overall rating. Look for a bright yellow label that lists all the general energy efficiency and typical operating costs. Some ratings you might encounter are:

• Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and energy efficiency ratio (EER) refer to an air conditioner’s ability to cool effectively. 
• Boiler and furnace efficiency ratings are calculated by annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).
• Heating seasonal performance factor (HSPF) measures a heat pump’s heating efficiency. 

The higher the ratings the more efficient the units are, which means lower utility costs. ENERGY STAR-certified equipment also boasts maximum energy efficiency, so check for the blue star label.

3. Inquire About the Existing System’s Age

A well-maintained heating and air conditioning system can last for years. However, a unit older than 15 years should be inspected and assessed for a potential replacement. 

Due to advancements in HVAC technology, new units are more energy-efficient, which translates to money savings. In fact, according to Energy.gov, replacing a 10-year air conditioner can save 20%-40% on cooling costs if you upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient model.

4. Ask About Maintenance and Repair History

The key to keeping commercial heating and cooling equipment performing at its peak is regular maintenance. When asking about the age of the existing unit, be sure to request a repair and tune-up history. 

Another way to find out more about previous repairs is to check for a job ticket attached to the air conditioner, boilers, furnace, etc. Often, HVAC contractors will leave a detailed report in the form of a job ticket on, or nearby, the unit. Be on the lookout for multiple repairs over a short period, which could indicate a problem down the road. 

Here’s Why an HVAC System Inspection is Worth the Cost

While it’s always a good idea to perform a self-inspection before you buy or lease your new Portland business, having a professional evaluation is still your best bet. Our NATE-Certified technicians are trained to catch any minor and major problems that might go unnoticed to the untrained eye.

At AAA Heating and Cooling, our HVAC services for businesses include a thorough inspection, repair and maintenance plan, and replacement advice. Before you rent, lease, or buy your commercial building, schedule an appointment with our expert team.