Simple Steps to Prep Your Commercial HVAC System for Cooling Season

A well-maintained HVAC system can provide reliable cooling during the cooling season, helping to reduce energy bills and improve air quality for occupants. Proper maintenance includes regular filter changes, cleaning of cooling coils and drain pans, sealing of ducts, and regular inspection by an HVAC professional. Additionally, it is important to keep the system free from dust and other debris. Following these steps can help ensure a comfortable cooling season for all.

What is Cooling Season?

Cooling season in HVAC refers to the time of year when air conditioning is necessary for comfort and health. In many parts of the world, this generally lasts from May through September, although regional climates may cause it to begin or end earlier or later. During cooling season, an HVAC system circulates cool air throughout the home, office, or other building to keep the indoor environment comfortable. The temperatures used vary by region and comfort level.

Keys for Comfortable and Efficient Cooling

Replacing your HVAC coils is essential before cooling season because worn-out or damaged coils can lead to higher energy bills, poor indoor air quality, and inadequate cooling performance.

Check Coils for Leaks prior to Startup

Although not typically used during winter, some cooling coils may have split tubes and freeze damage due to exposure to freezing temps over winter. It’s important to check all coils for leaks several months before cooling season. This allows time to order and install the coils before they are needed to cool a building. Newer models of coils are more efficient than ever before, so replacing them can help you save money on your energy bills.

Cleaning Coils and Drain Pans before Cooling Season

Cleaning your HVAC coils and drain pans is essential for proper functioning during cooling season. Dirty coils can cause the system to work harder, which leads to higher energy costs and reduced cooling performance. Cleaning the coils also helps reduce the amount of dust, dirt, and other debris that can accumulate in the system over time. It’s important to clear out any debris that might be obscuring the coils, as this can prevent them from transferring heat effectively.

In addition to cleaning the coils, it’s also important to clean the drain pans and lines. If there is a buildup of dirt or other debris in these areas, it can impede the flow of water and lead to water damage. Regularly cleaning these areas can help ensure that your HVAC system is functioning optimally during cooling season.

Types of Cooling HVAC Coils

Chilled Water Coils

Known as hydronic cooling coils, chilled water coils are a type of heat exchanger used to reduce temperatures and humidity from air streams. Air passes through the fins while either water or an ethylene/propylene glycol solution circulates in the tubes for superior cooling capabilities. The flow of water and air generally move in opposite directions which maximizes heat transfer; this arrangement is known as counter-flow heat exchanger technology.

Direct Expansion (DX) Coils / Evaporator Coils

DX (Direct Expansion) coils, also called evaporator coils, are one of the most common types of coils used for cooling in HVAC systems.  Evaporator coils remove heat and moisture from the air, cooling it in the process. The coils contain refrigerant that absorbs heat from the air as it passes across them, lowering its temperature.

Evaporator coils are available in an assortment of sizes, designs and capacities depending on the type of installation required, cooling capacity needed, and manufacturer. To increase the coil’s performance without changing length or width while keeping additional rows in place; more copper/aluminum tubing is added bringing you even closer to your optimal result!

Condenser Coils

A condenser coil is an important part of any cooling system. It takes heat away from the refrigerant and helps it turn back into a liquid. As air passes over the top of the coil, heat is taken away. A separate part of the coil helps make sure that the refrigerant changes back from gas to liquid. This all helps the cooling system run smoothly.

Replacement Coils from Cooney Coil & Energy

At Cooney Coil & Energy, we offer a variety of replacement coils and related components for all types of HVAC systems. Our replacement cooling coils are engineered to provide high-efficiency performance that exceeds industry standards. We guarantee form fit and function for our products, so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible product for your needs. Plus, our expedite program can get your building ready for the cooling season in as little as a week. With our superior quality and fast turnaround times, you can rest assured that your replacement coils will be installed quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services!