When Should You Refurbish Your Air Handling Units?

Air handling units (AHUs) are vital components of any HVAC system, playing a key role in maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring energy efficiency. As these systems age, their performance can decline, leading to issues that affect both comfort and operational costs. Air handling units refurbishment is a cost-effective alternative to complete replacement, extending their lifespan while improving performance. But how do you know when refurbishment is the right choice?

Signs Your AHUs May Need Refurbishment

Identifying when your AHUs require refurbishment is critical to avoid escalating issues. Here are common signs to look out for:

1. Decreased Air Quality or Inconsistent Temperature Control

If your building experiences poor air circulation, uneven temperatures, or a noticeable decline in air quality, it’s a clear sign your AHUs may not be operating efficiently.

2. Unusual Noises or Vibrations During Operation

Loud, persistent noises or unusual vibrations can indicate mechanical issues, such as worn-out bearings, imbalanced fans, or damaged components.

3. Increased Energy Consumption or Utility Bills

When AHUs consume more energy than usual, it’s often due to inefficient components or outdated systems struggling to maintain performance.

4. Visible Wear and Tear or Damage to Components

Rust, corrosion, and other visible damage can compromise the integrity of your AHUs, reducing their efficiency and effectiveness.

5. Frequent Breakdowns or Need for Repairs

If your AHUs require constant repairs or experience frequent downtime, refurbishment may be a more economical and sustainable solution.

Benefits of Refurbishing Air Handling Units

Refurbishment offers a range of advantages that make it an attractive option for many businesses:

1. Prolongs Equipment Lifespan

Refurbishing key components can significantly extend the operational life of your AHUs, delaying the need for a full replacement.

2. Enhances Energy Efficiency and Reduces Operational Costs

Upgraded parts and recalibrated systems help your AHUs run more efficiently, lowering energy consumption and reducing utility bills.

3. Improves Air Quality and Compliance with Health Regulations

Refurbishment ensures that your AHUs provide clean, filtered air, helping you meet indoor air quality standards and safeguarding occupant health.

4. Minimises Downtime Compared to Complete Replacement

Refurbishment is typically faster and less disruptive than replacing an entire unit, allowing your operations to continue with minimal interruption.

The Refurbishment Process

Refurbishing an AHU involves a systematic approach to ensure optimal performance:

1. Inspection and Assessment: A thorough evaluation identifies issues and determines the necessary repairs or upgrades.

2. Replacing or Upgrading Worn-Out Components: Key parts such as fans, motors, or filters are repaired or replaced to restore functionality.

3. Cleaning and Recalibrating the System: Cleaning internal components and recalibrating settings ensures efficient operation.

4. Testing for Optimal Performance Post-Refurbishment: The refurbished unit undergoes rigorous testing to confirm it meets performance standards.

   
   

When Replacement Might Be a Better Option

In some cases, replacing your AHUs may be more practical than refurbishment:

• Age of the Units: Systems that are outdated or have exceeded their expected lifespan may not benefit significantly from refurbishment.

• Costs of Refurbishment: If the cost of repairs exceeds the price of a new unit, replacement becomes the more cost-effective choice.

• Incompatibility with Modern Standards: Units that cannot meet current energy efficiency standards or building regulations may need to be replaced to ensure compliance.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and timely refurbishment are essential to keeping your air handling units running efficiently. By addressing issues early, you can save costs, improve air quality, and ensure a comfortable environment for building occupants. However, in cases where refurbishment isn’t feasible, replacement may be necessary. Consult Experts like those at ACES for this service!