Disappointing energy savings despite a new system? Here’s why.
In the world of commercial HVAC, it’s not uncommon for building managers or business owners to invest in a brand-new HVAC system expecting immediate and substantial energy savings. Yet, several months post-installation, the results often fall short of expectations. At AirGreen, we’ve worked with many clients in Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as on the North Shore and South Shore, who faced this frustrating reality. This article dives into the causes behind this phenomenon and, most importantly, the concrete solutions we’ve implemented to resolve it.
Unpleasant surprises after installing a new HVAC system
A high-performance HVAC system installed in a commercial building should logically reduce energy consumption, improve occupant comfort, and optimize building management. However, in practice, several elements can undermine the system’s actual performance—even if it’s brand-new.
1. The heat pump or air conditioner is improperly sized
One of the most frequent issues we encounter is the incorrect sizing of the equipment. Installing a wall-mounted heat pump rated at 36,000 BTU in a space that only needs 24,000 BTU leads not only to energy overconsumption but also to premature wear and tear. On the other hand, an undersized unit will constantly be overworked, reducing its overall efficiency.
At AirGreen, we carry out a comprehensive thermal analysis before every installation. For example, in a recent project in Boisbriand, a commercial client had a 24,000 BTU Gree Sapphire unit installed by another company, which proved to be insufficient for their actual needs. We reassessed the situation and replaced it with a Bosch BOVA 36,000 BTU system, paired with a smart thermostat. The result: a 28% drop in energy consumption over the following year.
2. Poor HVAC system configuration
A misconfigured system at startup can prevent components from operating at their full potential. Whether it’s improper airflow settings, a poorly positioned thermostat, or incorrect electrical connections, small technical mistakes can have major impacts on energy efficiency.
Our specialized technicians in Montréal and the South Shore always check duct balancing, airflow rates, connection quality, and electronic settings. One of our clients in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville wasn’t getting the expected savings from a highly efficient Fujitsu KZAH R-32 unit. After a diagnostic visit, we discovered the sensors were poorly positioned, resulting in inaccurate temperature readings. A simple adjustment was enough to boost system performance by 20%.
3. An outdated or poorly insulated duct system
Even the best central HVAC system loses efficiency if the air it distributes travels through leaky, clogged, or poorly insulated ducts. In older buildings in Laval, Repentigny, or Vaudreuil, we often see significant heat or cooling losses before the air even reaches the intended zones.
We always offer a full ductwork inspection before connecting any new equipment. In Longueuil, an office building saw energy bills drop by 32% after our team replaced poorly sealed ducts with insulated, airtight ducting.
4. Lack of regular preventive maintenance
Even a recently installed commercial HVAC system needs regular maintenance to keep running efficiently. Dirty filters, dust-covered coils, and unbalanced fans—all of these directly impact energy efficiency.
At AirGreen, we recommend a personalized annual maintenance plan, which includes deep cleaning of coils, refrigerant pressure checks, and system calibration. An industrial client in Saint-Eustache saw a drastic drop in performance after just six months. After we performed a full maintenance visit, the performance of their Goodman unit was fully restored.
5. No smart temperature control
One of the most effective ways to reduce energy costs is by installing smart thermostats or centralized control systems. Without them, even a high-performance system can operate inefficiently.
We recently installed a Fujitsu system with zoning in an office building in Verdun, paired with a Bosch smart thermostat. Annual heating savings exceeded $3,000.
How to avoid these mistakes from the start?
Work with an HVAC company that takes time to do proper calculations
At AirGreen, every project starts with a comprehensive thermal evaluation, a site review of existing systems, and a modeling of actual energy needs. We work with top brands like Goodman, Fujitsu, Bosch, Gree, Arcoaire, and Tosot, and we know exactly which system fits which situation.
Prioritize post-installation energy audits
Even after a successful installation, we provide a performance audit after three months, allowing for fine-tuning if needed. This step—too often skipped by other installers—ensures that promised energy savings become reality.
Maintain your system diligently
With our commercial maintenance contracts, you get proactive follow-up, detailed reports, and custom recommendations. Our commercial clients in Brossard, Terrebonne, and LaSalle entrust us with the full management of their HVAC systems to maximize long-term returns on their investment.
What you need to remember
Purchasing and installing a new HVAC system alone doesn’t guarantee energy savings. It’s the quality of the initial analysis, the precision of the installation, and the rigor of ongoing maintenance that make the real difference. At AirGreen, we turn promising projects into measurable energy success stories, across Montréal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.
Not seeing the savings your new HVAC system promised? Contact AirGreen today for a full diagnostic and tailored solutions.