Understanding the most frequent mistakes to preserve the performance of your commercial heating system
In the world of commercial heating, even the smallest mistake can lead to costly consequences, both in terms of energy efficiency and occupant comfort. At AirGreen, we’ve been called to intervene in numerous commercial buildings in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, on the North Shore and South Shore, where the problems often stemmed not from faulty equipment, but from avoidable human error. This article guides you through the 10 most common mistakes we’ve seen in the field, along with concrete tips to prevent them. By understanding these pitfalls, you’ll improve the durability, efficiency, and overall performance of your commercial heating systems.
1. Choosing an improperly sized heating system
The most common mistake remains the incorrect sizing of the heating system. If it’s too powerful, the unit will cycle too quickly, causing thermal discomfort and premature wear. Too weak, and it will struggle to heat the space effectively.
At AirGreen, we perform a comprehensive thermal analysis of the building, taking into account the volume, insulation, sun exposure, and how the premises are used. For example, in a warehouse in Laval, a client had installed an oversized system that caused significant temperature fluctuations. We replaced the unit with a properly sized Fujitsu KRL-A central heat pump, reducing heating costs by 30%.
2. Neglecting regular system maintenance
A commercial heating system that isn’t maintained loses efficiency, consumes more energy, and often breaks down at the worst possible time. A clogged filter, a dirty coil, or a loose belt can reduce output by up to 25%.
Our custom CVAC maintenance contracts help prevent these issues. Recently, in a restaurant in Longueuil, we implemented a biannual maintenance program on an ACD unit. Since then, no emergency calls have been needed, and system performance remains stable.
3. Overlooking the quality of the initial installation
Even top-of-the-line equipment, like Bosch BOVA IDS Premium systems, won’t deliver their full potential if poorly installed. An improperly sloped duct system, uninsulated ductwork, or poorly placed thermostat can undermine the entire system.
That’s why our certified installers follow strict protocols. In Montréal, in an office building on René-Lévesque Boulevard, we corrected a poorly executed installation of a central Goodman system. Once fixed, the temperature became even throughout the building, and tenant complaints stopped.
4. Using inadequate temperature control
A poorly programmed or badly placed thermostat can sabotage an otherwise efficient system. The absence of smart thermal zoning in multi-use spaces is another frequent error.
We prefer installing multi-zone smart thermostats, such as those compatible with Fujitsu or Zephyr systems, to adjust temperatures based on actual space occupancy. In a medical center in Sainte-Thérèse, this strategy led to a 22% energy reduction.
5. Delaying equipment upgrades
Using an outdated, inefficient system—even if it’s still running—is like burning money. Many property owners put off investing in a new system, not realizing they’re paying more in the long run.
We recently replaced a 1998 forced-air heating system in a private school in Brossard with a Gree Flexx R-32 central heat pump. The result: a 40% drop in energy bills in the first month and eligibility for a LogisVert rebate of $4,920.
6. Overlooking building insulation
Even the best CVAC system can’t make up for poor insulation. Heat loss through walls, windows, or roofs can ruin all heating efforts.
Before any installation, our technicians evaluate the building envelope. In Terrebonne, we advised the owner of a commercial garage to insulate his roof before installing an ACD system. The return on investment was immediate.
7. Choosing a provider without commercial CVAC experience
Installing a residential heating system in a commercial building is a frequent mistake made by non-specialized contractors. The needs are different: larger volumes, stricter regulations, greater ventilation requirements.
AirGreen specializes in commercial CVAC installations. For example, we installed a high-capacity Elios central heat pump in a refrigerated warehouse in Saint-Eustache, with measurable results from week one.
8. Failing to adjust for peak usage hours
Many systems aren’t optimized to handle occupancy peaks or seasonal thermal loads. This leads to discomfort or excessive energy use.
We install modulating units (e.g., Bosch BOVA R-454B), capable of adjusting output in real-time based on demand. In a sports center in Longueuil, this helped maintain stable temperatures, even during peak activity hours.
9. Ignoring available subsidies
Many businesses don’t take advantage of the available financial aid, such as Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert rebates or tax credits for energy efficiency.
Our advisors assist every client with the grant application process, which helped a veterinary clinic in Laval recover over $7,000 when installing two Trane XV20i units.
10. Failing to plan long-term system management
A commercial heating system should be part of a long-term strategy: scalability, maintenance, compatibility with future technologies, and projected energy consumption.
We offer 10- to 15-year CVAC management plans, with projected maintenance costs, profitability analysis, and technology evolution planning. This global approach convinced a property manager in Montréal to entrust AirGreen with the renovation of all his buildings.
Our expertise powering your commercial projects
At AirGreen, we believe a good commercial heating system starts with attentive listening, a precise technical diagnosis, and flawless execution. We operate in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore and South Shore, offering custom solutions and certified installations.
Whether you manage a restaurant, clinic, gym, office building, or warehouse, avoid these critical errors by working with a specialized team. Our installations ensure performance, longevity, savings, and comfort.
Want to avoid these mistakes in your commercial building? Contact us today for a free technical evaluation.