How to Estimate the Cost of Your Commercial HVAC Unit

Businesses in Beaverton rely on HVAC systems for employee comfort and air quality. If you are breaking ground on new construction, you want to make sure you install the right HVAC unit for your building before opening your doors. 

Looking for a new system for your commercial property? Need advice on how to estimate the cost of a commercial HVAC system? Our team can help.

How Much Does a Commercial HVAC Unit Cost?

Installing a new commercial heating and air conditioning unit is an investment. A commercial HVAC unit is a complex machine that relies on multiple technologies and parts to function properly. Because of this complexity, costs depend on a variety of factors. To help you determine the variables that can affect HVAC pricing, let’s examine system components for existing buildings and new properties. 

HVAC Options & Costs for New Commercial Construction 

If you are buying a commercial property in Beaverton, or starting construction on a new building, it’s a good idea to evaluate your HVAC options and costs. The cost of a new HVAC unit and installation vary according to the system you are purchasing. Here are a few pricing factors to consider:

• Heat Pumps, Central Air, and Furnaces
  Heat pumps tend to be more expensive upfront, but they can save on long-term costs. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, are considered a more environmentally friendly option, and are available ductless. Central air offers only cooling options, while furnaces only provide heating. Both typically require ductwork to be installed.

• Temperature Controls
  Depending on the size of your business, your HVAC system might need a simple, single thermostat or a more involved setup of multiple devices. Costs vary based on the complexity of your needs. 

• Energy Efficiency Ratings
  HVAC systems have a variety of ratings designed to let the consumer know the energy efficiency of the unit. SEER and EER energy ratings can affect the price of HVAC units. Those with higher efficiency ratings are more expensive, but have fewer negative impacts on the environment and are more energy efficient. This can save you money down the road.

Pricing Factors for HVAC Replacement in Your Existing Building

Is it time to replace your HVAC system? Here’s what you need to know before you work with your HVAC installer to determine the best unit for your needs. Keep in mind, now might be a good time to do a complete system upgrade. 

• Commercial Heating and Air Conditioning Equipment
  Commercial HVAC systems come in two categories: air-cooled and water-cooled. Water-cooled HVAC units are more cost-effective options upfront. Air-cooled systems tend to cost more initially, but they are known to run more efficiently, which can save you money on energy costs. Equipment costs vary based on overall quality, heating and cooling capacity, and technical functions. 

• HVAC Ductwork
  If you are replacing your HVAC unit you might have to consider installing new ductwork at the same time. Faulty or worn out ducts can impede the function of your new HVAC system, causing your unit to work harder and cost more to run. Consult with your HVAC contractor and see if your ducts need a thorough cleaning, or complete replacement. Installing new ducts will increase the cost of your HVAC installation, but will help with indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

• Commercial HVAC Controls
  HVAC control systems offer a range of controller types, from programmable thermostats to Smart thermostats. As a result, costs can vary widely. As a rule of thumb, the more technologically advanced the controller, the higher the initial investment. While the costs could be more upfront, programmable controllers are highly efficient and can reduce your building energy costs considerably. 

Commercial HVAC Services for Your Beaverton Business

Whether you are looking to upgrade an existing HVAC system or need advice on the best solution for your new building, AAA Heating and Cooling is here to help. 

HVAC System Testing

Testing is a crucial component to any new HVAC installation. Whether your commercial building is brand new, or you have just upgraded a system in your existing building, an initial inspection and test run should be performed by your Beaverton HVAC contractor. Because HVAC systems are intricate machines, there will likely be some adjustments that need to be made before the entire system is fully functional.  

Warranties and Maintenance

Warranty consideration should be a main factor in your HVAC selection. A solid warranty will help prevent costly expenses in the future. Make sure to read over warranty offers closely, paying close attention to the length of terms, what parts are covered, and if an extended warranty is available. 

To ensure the longevity of your HVAC investment, you will need to schedule routine maintenance. Work with your HVAC installers to develop a yearly maintenance plan. 

Our expert HVAC contractors can recommend a suitable HVAC unit for your needs and budget. We proudly serve the Beaverton and Portland metro areas. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment. 

We all look forward to spring and summer. The days are longer, the sun is shining, and flowers are in bloom. For those with allergies, however, pollen can be a nuisance. While we associate allergies mostly with the outdoors, your Portland business’s indoor air quality can affect those with allergies as well. 

What’s worse? Mold, mildew, dust, and other debris could be circulating throughout your commercial property, exacerbating allergies. Did you know that your HVAC system plays a large role in helping to mitigate allergens? Our local HVAC contractors share tips on how to improve your air quality. 

Is Your Commercial HVAC System Making Allergies Worse?

Indoor air pollution comes from a variety of sources and can trigger allergic responses. The most common allergens found inside of commercial business in the Portland area include pet dander, mold and mildew, pollen, and dust mites. 

With Oregon leading the nation in the top five worst cities for allergy sufferers, it’s crucial to maintain good indoor air quality. 

4 Common Causes of Poor Indoor Air Quality in Commercial Spaces

1) Mold and Mildew

Our rainy seasons make for a perfect mold and mildew breeding ground. Mildew and mold quickly accumulate in damp, moist environments. As the spores travel through the air, they can aggravate allergies and even trigger asthma attacks. An improperly maintained HVAC system could be harboring harmful condensation and humidity. Turning on your commercial heating and air conditioning unit under these conditions could inadvertently expose people in your building to mold and mildew. 

The Fix:

To assess the health of your HVAC unit, schedule an appointment with your Portland HVAC contractor. They can address any problems and ensure that your system is functioning properly. You can also set up a routine maintenance schedule to keep your unit performing at its best. If you have a serious problem with humidity, consider installing a dehumidifier for your business. 

2) Dirty Ducts

Duct systems distribute hot and cool air throughout your commercial property. Over time, and without proper maintenance, air ducts can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other allergy causing debris. As the dirty air ducts circulate air through your building, the contaminants get circled as well.

The Fix:

To improve your overall air quality, have a professional perform a complete cleaning of your duct system. If your ducts are damaged from neglect, or simply past their prime, you might want to think about a replacement.

3) Clogged Air Filter

HVAC air filters are designed to trap dirt, pollen, and other pollutants and prevent them from circulating back into your commercial building. Dirty and clogged air filters can fail to function, causing pesky allergens to redistribute back into the air. 

The Fix:

Check and change your air filter frequently. Our Portland HVAC company recommends checking your air filters monthly and replacing them every three months. For a high-efficiency filter, consider upgrading to a filter with a high MERV rating. 

4) Stagnant Air

To help with energy efficiency, many commercial buildings are heavily insulated and air tight. While great from an energy standpoint, if indoor air doesn’t have a chance to escape you could be trapping allergens inside. 

The Fix:

Even if the temperature inside seems comfortable, it’s ok to run your air conditioning unit for 20 minutes to periodically circulate the air. AC units help remove stale air and draw fresh air inside. Work with a NATE certified HVAC professional to conduct a proper inspection of your HVAC unit and make sure your air conditioner is functioning properly. This is also a good time to check your AC energy efficiency and think about an upgrade if needed. 

HVAC Solutions for Commercial Buildings in Oregon

Help keep allergies at bay in your commercial building with professional HVAC services from AAA Heating and Cooling. Our skilled technicians provide professional service, expert installation, and quality repair. 

Want to ready your commercial property for the allergy season and beyond? Contact us today! 

2020 is an exciting time for commercial development in Beaverton. New hotels, the much anticipated Center for the Arts, and a wealth of new buildings will be breaking ground this year and beyond. 

Curious to know what new commercial properties will be popping up? What does this mean for potential business owners? Our commercial HVAC contractors give you the lowdown on all aspects of the progress.

Commercial Projects in the Works

From retail establishments, to restaurants, to arts and entertainment, our business sector is going through dynamic changes. Here’s a brief list of current and forthcoming business calling Beaverton home:

• Two new hotels started construction at the beginning of 2019, and there are plans for more accommodations in 2020. 
• More than 60 restaurants, including a wine bar and brew pub, have opened their doors nearby our Beaverton Central MAX station. 
• The long awaited Center for the Arts broke ground November 13, 2019 and is expected to have its Grand Opening in the fall of 2021. 
• Cedar Hills Shopping Center could see a major redevelopment with the addition of 500 apartments and new retail shops.

The ongoing projects are expected to bring in more jobs, increase tourism, and strengthen  our already vibrant downtown.

Does Your Commercial Property Need an HVAC System? 

Is your new business about to break ground? Have you thought about your unique commercial heating and air conditioning needs? 

Whether you are still in the planning stages or close to completion, keep these money-saving facts in mind when installing your HVAC system:

• HVAC systems with higher SEER, EER, and HSPF ratings will increase your energy efficiency and save you money in utility bills over time. Maximize your savings by installing an Energy Star certified unit. 
• New ductwork, that is properly installed and sealed by your HVAC contractor, improves air quality and helps maintain ideal indoor temperatures. With healthy air quality and regulated temperatures, you can avoid potential health complications like allergies and asthma. 
• New HVAC systems require less maintenance upfront. Older systems can show signs of deterioration, struggle to work, or fail to function. While new HVAC units don’t require immediate care, don’t forget routine check-ups to help avoid costly repairs in the future.

At AAA Heating and Cooling, we provide expert repair, maintenance, and installation. Let one of our dedicated HVAC professionals assist you with your commercial heating and cooling needs. Contact us today!