Improving the performance of your commercial heating system isn’t just about regular maintenance. In many cases, the real issues are hidden behind seemingly ordinary symptoms. That’s where the expertise of a certified professional in commercial HVAC like AirGreen becomes essential. With extensive experience handling complex installations across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the South Shore, and the North Shore, we know how to identify subtle signs of deep-rooted malfunctions that others often miss.
When Expertise Makes All the Difference in Commercial Heating
Commercial buildings are often equipped with powerful, sophisticated, and interconnected central heating systems that require specific know-how for effective diagnostics. Here, we reveal 5 common yet misunderstood commercial heating issues that demand advanced expertise to detect — and resolve.
1. Uneven heating across different areas of the building
A telltale sign of poor system balancing or faulty design
A common complaint: some zones are overheated, others remain cold. Many believe a simple thermostat adjustment will solve the issue. In reality, this could indicate:
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An unbalanced air distribution system
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Blocked or improperly sized ducts
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Faulty zone dampers in multi-zone installations
In a recent service call in Ville Saint-Laurent, a distribution warehouse suffered from extreme temperature differences between the receiving area and office spaces. Our technicians discovered two motorized dampers on secondary ducts had been stuck closed for months — a failure overlooked in previous maintenance visits. Thanks to a thorough inspection and pressure testing, we corrected the airflow, ensuring uniform comfort throughout the building.
2. Excessive energy consumption despite having a recent system
An optimization issue often overlooked
Even new gas or electric heating systems can show unusually high operating costs. Possible causes include:
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Incorrect heating cycle configurations
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An oversized system relative to actual needs
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Poor control through thermostats or building automation systems
At a medical center in Brossard, our team was called in for unexpectedly high winter electricity bills. Upon inspection, we found that their modulating central heat pump, a Bosch IDS Premium R-454B installed by another contractor, had never been set up to run in energy-saving mode. A simple reprogramming of start-up cycles and time settings led to a 27% reduction in their bill within just two months.
3. Frequent system restarts (short heating cycles)
A classic symptom of a deeper technical issue
This phenomenon, known as short cycling, leads to premature wear on components and higher energy use. It’s often caused by:
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Improper system sizing
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A poorly placed temperature sensor
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A fault in the regulation system
At a hotel in Laval, a 60,000 BTU Goodman R-32 system was restarting every four minutes. Our specialists discovered a temperature sensor positioned too close to a south-facing window, skewing ambient temperature readings. After relocating the sensor and recalibrating the smart thermostat, the issue was resolved without the need to replace the equipment.
4. Intermittent mechanical noises with no clear origin
More than a nuisance — a technical red flag
A squeak, clicking, or humming noise could signal:
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Premature bearing wear
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Motor or blower misalignment
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Vibrations from loose mounting supports
At a commercial complex in Repentigny, the client reported a humming noise on the roof during nighttime hours. Upon inspection, we found the compressor’s rubber mounts had hardened over time. Replacing these vibration isolators immediately eliminated the noise and helped prevent a costly equipment failure.
5. Persistent odor when the heating system starts
A sign of internal contamination or filtration failure
This issue is often underestimated but can stem from serious causes:
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Mold build-up in the ductwork
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A dirty heat exchanger
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Inadequate or missing filtration
At a high school in Longueuil, teachers complained of an unpleasant smell each morning. Upon opening the units, we found mold growth on the heating coil fins. Thanks to our specialized HVAC cleaning service, we eliminated the mold and installed a HEPA filtration system with UV treatment, significantly improving the indoor air quality.
Why Trust AirGreen with Your Commercial Heating?
At AirGreen, we understand that commercial heating systems require far more than general HVAC skills. Our technical teams are trained to work on the most advanced brands (Bosch, Goodman, Fujitsu, Lennox, Trane, etc.) and in the most complex environments, from institutional buildings to office towers to high-traffic commercial spaces.
We combine cutting-edge diagnostics, technical expertise, and tailored solutions, while helping you take advantage of available grants, such as Hydro-Québec’s LogisVert programs.
Expert Tips: How to Prevent These Issues
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Have your system inspected at least once a year by a qualified professional.
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Invest in smart heating control systems (connected thermostats, building automation).
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Request a sizing verification when replacing or installing new equipment.
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Never ignore an unusual smell, sound, or temperature fluctuation.
AirGreen: Your Trusted Partner in Commercial HVAC
From Montreal to the South Shore, through Laval and the North Shore, our mission is clear: to provide businesses with reliable, efficient, quiet, and cost-effective heating systems. Every service call is backed by thorough diagnostics, a proactive approach, and real solutions that stand the test of time.
Suspect a complex issue with your current system? Contact our team today.
