HVAC systems in hospitals do more than just keep everything comfortable, they also play a role in patient safety and reducing the chance of infections spreading throughout the building. Being able to identify common issues that your system could face allows you to get it fixed quicker, and potentially save lives. This guide will go over some common questions and signs that could indicate a large HVAC problem, that way you can notice them sooner and call for repairs fast.
Why Won’t Air Come Out Of The Vents?
This can be due to many different reasons. First, check and see if the fan is running. If it is, that could be a sign of a clogged filter. If the fan is not running, that can either indicate a motor issue, or just a tripped breaker. Check the breaker box to make sure that everything is properly turned on. If the breakers are okay, the fan likely needs repaired.
Why Does One Part Of The Hospital Seem Too Hot Or Cold?
Uneven temperatures could be a result of a malfunctioning thermostat, or issues with the airflow balancing. Double check your thermostat settings, and make sure that nothing is blocking any vents or returns.
Why Does The Hospital’s Air Smell Musty Or Stale?
A musty odor could mean that there is mold or other growths in the ductwork or coils. If the odor only appears when a certain system is running or only comes from one spot in the room, the growth is likely close by. The best thing to do when dealing with mold is to contact someone who specializes in mold remediation, as mold can easily grow back if not completely eliminated the first time.
Why Does My Hospital HVAC System Keep Restarting?
If your system won’t finish a complete cycle, or keeps restarting for no reason, it could be due to a number of reasons like a faulty system, a strained system, or incorrect thermometer readings. An HVAC maintenance and repair company can better diagnose the issue and resolve it.
Why Is The Humidity Increasing In The Hospital?
Rapid rises in humidity could be the result of just incorrect settings, or a deeper issue like clogged coils. Make sure that the fans are not set to run continuously, and that the area is not being cooled too much. Because cooled air brings moisture in with it, its important to give areas time to dehumidify before letting more cold air in. If adjusting the settings doesn’t seem to make a difference, your HVAC system likely needs service.
How Can I Prevent Hospital HVAC Issues Like These?
The best way to prevent issues in your hospital’s HVAC system is to make sure that it is receiving continuous preventative maintenance. This includes inspections, cleanings, filter changes and more.
If you are ready to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and issue free, reach out to the team at PROAC Corp. We have years of experience working with hospitals in air quality testing, duct cleaning, mold remediation, and of course, HVAC maintenance and repair. Start protecting your system from costly breakdowns and patient health risks by contacting PROAC today.