Rooftop Unit Emergency Repairs 

November 15, 2024

Commercial rooftop units (RTUs) are more complex than residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.  

If you are accustomed to tinkering with your home system when something goes wrong, do not count on addressing RTU issues at your business with the same ease. 

At Commercial Cooling Center, we want to help you keep your HVAC system running smoothly. We know your employees and customers depend on consistent heating and cooling for a comfortable, healthy experience in your commercial building. 

When your packaged unit needs maintenance or repair, tap Commercial Cooling Center for the best in commercial HVAC expertise. Our network of reliable, experienced commercial Carrier dealers serves customers in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas.

You can find a Carrier dealer by clicking our online link.

Working With a Commercial HVAC Expert

Commercial expertise is a must when dealing with RTUs because they typically have different power requirements, refrigerants, and many components from residential systems. 

Even if you are a diehard do-it-yourselfer at home, your skills likely will not transfer to a complex commercial HVAC system. Or you may not have the time in your busy schedule to add HVAC repair to your plate. 

However, knowing how to handle an RTU issue is crucial for any commercial property owner or manager. Knowing when to seek a professional diagnosis and repair is essential. 

If you have the time for some HVAC detective work, you can minimize downtime by correcting minor issues with a hands-on fix. Any information you gather about your problematic RTU will give your HVAC technician valuable insight into the problem. 

Maintaining Your Packaged Unit

Before calling for professional help, you can try identifying the issue. Grab your ladder. We are heading to the roof!

  • Obstructions: Clear debris around the unit. It may be blocking airflow.
  • Filter: Open the access panel to the unit and locate the air filter. If it is dirty, install a clean one. If you are looking for a gas heat and electric cooling RTU that offers easy access to the air filter, choose Carrier WeatherMaker® 48FE. Its tool-less filter access door makes filter replacements a breeze.
  • Loose Connections: Rattling noises could indicate loose components. Tighten loose screws and bolts. 

Signs Your RTU Has a Problem

Besides experiencing a system breakdown, how do you know your RTU may need professional repair? Consider these tips: 

  • High Energy Bills: A sudden increase in energy consumption and utility costs could indicate your RTU is working harder than necessary. 
  • Poor Airflow: If your air filter is not the culprit, it could be a ductwork issue or motor problems. 
  • Noises: If the banging and clanking you hear are not loose screws, a mechanical issue or air leaks could be the problem. 
  • Refrigerant: If your RTU is 15 to 20 years old and you suspect a refrigerant leak, it may have corroded coils that have begun to leak. Damage and faulty installation also can cause leaks. Handling refrigerants requires special equipment and training. 
  • Electrical: Your RTU may turn on and off unexpectedly because of electrical problems. A power surge or tripped circuit breaker are two of many causes of electrical troubles. Through our Carrier Cooling Center network, you can find a carrier dealer to diagnose and repair electrical issues. 
  • Drainage: A blocked drain line can cause an RTU shutdown. 

Preventative Maintenance

The best way to handle an RTU emergency is through preventative maintenance.

Maintenance identifies potential issues before they escalate and cause costly damage. It ensures your RTU operates at peak efficiency and will provide a safe, comfortable environment for customers and employees. 

An expert in commercial HVAC can recommend how often you should schedule maintenance and what it should include. If your system is newer and in top condition, it may require fewer checkups. An older system, or one enveloped in smog or clogged with cottonwood seeds, may need more visits. 

One of our Commercial Cooling Center HVAC teams can tailor maintenance to your needs. After servicing your system consistently, a qualified technician will learn to recognize its quirks, leading to quicker diagnoses.

Consult with a Commercial Cooling Center member today!

Take care of your RTU emergency by contacting a Carrier commercial dealer. Prevent emergencies by scheduling maintenance. Find a Commercial Cooling Center member in Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas by clicking our online link.