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. 

As COVID-19 stays on the forefront of everyone’s minds, businesses and their facility managers are looking for guidance to maintain a safe working environment. What are the latest resources available to commercial operations? Our HVAC company in Portland and Beaverton provides the latest information.

3 Resources for Information About Coronavirus and Commercial HVAC System Operations

To help stop the spread of COVID-19, an increasing number of commercial and institutional facilities have begun implementing emergency strategies to halt the virus from affecting occupants and operations. Federal agencies have compiled a wealth of resources to help companies navigate these new emergency plans, from control and prevention, to hazard recognition, to HVAC systems. Here we share three of the latest resources addressing COVID-19 concerns. 

1) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Created in 1970, OSHA’s mission is to set and enforce standards that ensure a safe and healthy workplace environment. This includes providing training, education, and assistance. Since COVID-19 is highly transmissible, making the workplace a potential hazard, OSHA has developed specific coronavirus safety guidelines. OSHA’s COVID-19 resources cover topics like exposure risk in various industries, prepping the workplace, and mandated training. 

2) U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

In the wake of COVID-19, the CDC has assembled new sanitation and safety strategies that focus on infection prevention. The organization has also put together a wealth of information to aid commercial operations in ensuring safe business practices. 

3) American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

Formed in 1959, ASHRAE serves as a valuable resource for HVAC and refrigeration professionals. It creates industry guidelines, provides education, and promotes a standard code of ethics. Recently, ASHRAE has released two statements to help clarify the relationship between COVID-19 and HVAC systems.

• ASHRAE’s Statement on the Transmission of COVID-19:
  “Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through the air is sufficiently likely that airborne exposure to the virus should be controlled. Changes to building operations, including the operation of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems, can reduce airborne exposures.”

• ASHRAE’s Statement on the Operation of HVAC Systems During COVID-19:
  “Ventilation and filtration provided by heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems can reduce the airborne concentration of SARS-CoV-2 and thus the risk of transmission through the air. Unconditioned spaces can cause thermal stress to people that may be directly life threatening and that may also lower resistance to infection. In general, disabling of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems is not a recommended measure to reduce the transmission of the virus.”

ASHRAE has also put together an Epidemic Task Force. Their focus is to analyze the relationship between HVAC systems and the spread of diseases in buildings during pandemics. They have published a document on airborne infectious diseases and an Emerging Issues Brief concerning COVID-19 and airborne transmissions. 

What Do ASHRAE’s Findings Suggest?

ASHRAE’s COVID-19 preparedness resources suggest that HVAC filters might help reduce virus transmission and remove other air contaminants, which could have other health consequences. 

Best HVAC Practices for Businesses and Facility Managers

In order to help reduce potential viral or other air contaminants, it’s imperative that you have your commercial HVAC filtration system inspected. If your air filter is dirty or clogged, it may be circulating polluted air throughout your establishment, creating a safety hazard.

A low-quality air filter, even if it is clean, might not be doing the best job at trapping contaminants. To ensure you have the best filter for your system, consult your local HVAC contractor.  

Local Commercial HVAC System Operation and Maintenance in Portland & Beaverton

If you need expert HVAC advice for your commercial property, contact AAA Heating and Cooling today. Our air filtration professionals, in Portland and Beaverton, can replace your existing air filters, service your HVAC unit, and help you plan a maintenance schedule. 

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!