Investing in a commercial rooftop HVAC unit is a smart business move. Not only are you able to save valuable space that could be utilized in other ways, but your equipment is also better protected from any accidental damage and you’ll find cost savings through better efficiency.

Plus, rooftop units are designed to be rugged since they must withstand sometimes drastic weather changes and are exposed to a variety of elements. But no matter how sturdy your unit is, performance is guaranteed to degrade over time — and when it does, you’ll be faced with the decision of whether to repair, upgrade or replace.

So, how do you know which option is better for your facility?

First, you’ll want to consider the age of your unit. The life expectancy of a typical commercial HVAC rooftop unit is 15-20 years — dependent, of course, on things like proper maintenance and daily wear and tear. If your facility’s unit is less than 10 years old and in good working condition, you should be able to get several more seasons of use (with regular service). If heating and cooling performance becomes inconsistent, a replacement could be on the horizon.

Sizing is another factor to consider before deciding the fate of your equipment. Is your current unit sized for your facility’s needs? Oversized units waste energy and money, while units that are too small wear out quicker and aren’t efficient at heating and cooling.

Repairs not cutting it, but you’re not quite in a financial position for a full replacement? Your facility could benefit from a system upgrade. If you hope to get another two years (or more) from your unit and it’s still in relatively decent working order, but you’ve noticed higher energy bills, a retrofit makes sense. Studies have shown that businesses can save up to 40% on energy costs by retrofitting with updated technology and controls.

At Legacy Mechanical, we offer solutions that will fit your unique application and give your facility optimal results. Contact our team today to talk to an expert!