A commercial heating system is the backbone of thermal comfort in a professional building. But before it completely breaks down, it often sends out subtle warning signs that only seasoned facility managers or HVAC professionals can recognize. At AirGreen, we respond daily throughout Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore to diagnose, maintain, or replace struggling commercial heating systems. In this article, we share our on-the-ground expertise by outlining five key signs that indicate an imminent breakdown.
Recurring Comfort Complaints: The First Silent Indicator
One of the first signs of a failing commercial heating system is complaints from building occupants. Areas that are too cold, inconsistent temperatures between rooms, or heating cycles that are too short or too long all suggest the system is losing regulation and output capacity.
At AirGreen, we recently responded to an office building in Longueuil where the admin team consistently complained about feeling cold, despite correct thermostat settings. Our diagnosis revealed a worn rooftop unit fan that could no longer properly distribute heat. A prompt repair prevented a total system failure and a costly shutdown of daily operations.
Unusual and Increasing Energy Consumption
A sudden spike in energy bills is a major red flag. Outdated or poorly maintained commercial heating systems have to work harder to maintain stable indoor temperatures, leading to excessive energy use.
During a service call in Laval, we discovered that an aging Goodman gas system was responsible for a 35% increase in energy consumption. By replacing key components and performing a thorough HVAC maintenance, we restored the system’s efficiency and reduced operating costs.
Unusual Mechanical Noises: The Hidden Language of Imminent Failure
Every commercial heating professional knows that a quiet system is a healthy one. If you hear metallic noises, grinding, or banging, it's likely that mechanical parts are worn, misaligned, or on the verge of breaking.
A client on the South Shore, who runs a small distribution center, called us after noticing a strange banging sound from his 75,000 BTU Lennox unit. We diagnosed a failing bearing in the fan motor—a repair that, if left unresolved, would have led to a full system failure in the middle of winter.
An Increase in Service Calls
A well-maintained system should require just one preventive HVAC maintenance visit per year. If your building needs several technical interventions in a short period, it’s a strong sign the system is nearing the end of its operational life.
In Montréal, a senior living facility contacted us for the fourth time in two months regarding its Arcoaire central heating system. After a complete audit, we recommended a full replacement, supported by a LogisVert grant plan, and installed a new, far more reliable and energy-efficient Bosch BOVA 36,000 BTU R-454B system.
Unusual Odors or Excessive Humidity
Smells of burning, mold, or dampness indicate serious issues: water infiltration in ducts, dust buildup on heating elements, or worse—overheating electrical components.
In Boisbriand, on the North Shore, a food processing business reported a persistent smell of melting plastic. We discovered that the indoor thermostat of a FUJITSU KZAH R-32 heat pump had partially melted due to a short circuit. We replaced it immediately, preventing a costly production halt.
Why These Signs Should Be Taken Seriously
Avoid Major Repair Costs
Ignoring these early warning signs inevitably leads to critical failures. A breakdown during peak winter can cost thousands in emergency repairs, lost productivity, and even property damage from freezing.
Ensure Operational Continuity
A non-functional heating system in a business, factory, or school can bring operations to a standstill. Identifying and responding to these early signs ensures business continuity and safety for occupants.
Maximize Energy Efficiency
By acting early, we improve energy efficiency, which leads to significant savings over time.
The AirGreen Approach: Inspection, Expertise, and Long-Term Solutions
At AirGreen, we do more than just repairs. We conduct detailed diagnostics, perform complete HVAC maintenance, and provide tailor-made solutions adapted to your building and your budget.
We operate in a variety of settings, from neighborhood shops in Montréal, to industrial warehouses in Laval, to administrative buildings in Longueuil, and residential complexes on the North and South Shores.
Key Takeaways: Smart Habits When Facing a Failing Heating System
Inspect regularly.
An annual maintenance program helps prevent breakdowns and extends equipment life.
Document abnormalities.
Keeping a record of complaints, noises, smells, or high energy use helps our technicians create an accurate diagnostic history.
Call AirGreen at the first sign of trouble.
The sooner you act, the easier, faster, and more cost-effective the solution will be.
Trust AirGreen for Your Commercial Heating Needs
Our service calls are precise, well-documented, and backed by real-world installation examples throughout Greater Montréal. Our certified technicians deliver fast, safe service aligned with the highest standards in the industry.
Whether you manage an office building in Laval, a community center in Longueuil, or run a factory on the North Shore, contact us for a full evaluation of your heating system. At AirGreen, we catch what others miss—before it becomes unmanageable.
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