Do you need rooftop HVAC repair for your commercial building in Central Jersey? Rooftop HVAC units are the workhorses of offices, warehouses, and retail spaces throughout Edison, Metuchen, and surrounding communities. Understanding common problems associated with these units can help you make informed decisions about service and maintenance.
When rooftop units start experiencing problems, business operations can be seriously impacted. It’s vital to seek professional rooftop HVAC repair services to save your business time and money, keeping your employees and customers comfortable in both summer heat and winter cold.
Signs Your Rooftop HVAC Unit Isn’t Working Properly
By recognizing the early warning signs of rooftop unit problems, you can prevent minor issues from escalating into major headaches. Being proactive about maintenance and repairs with reliable commercial HVAC services can help extend the life of your system while avoiding costly emergency replacements.
Key indicators that you may require rooftop unit repair include:
- Unusual noises, like grinding, squealing, or banging sounds
- Inconsistent temperatures in different zones of your building
- Higher-than-normal utility bills without changes in usage
- Strange odors coming from vents or the rooftop HVAC unit
- Visible leaks around the unit or water damage inside the building
- Reduced airflow or poor air circulation
- Short cycling, where the system turns on and off frequently
- Complete system shutdown or failure to start
Our HVAC warranty programs provide peace of mind by covering both parts and labor for mechanical and electrical failures.
Rooftop HVAC Repair: Common Problems and Solutions
Commercial HVAC considerations are different from those for residential systems. Commercial rooftop units face unique challenges due to their constant exposure to weather elements and continuous operation demands. By understanding these common issues, business owners can make better-informed decisions about unit repair or replacement.
Rooftop unit not heating
When your rooftop unit is not heating properly during New Jersey’s cold winters, several factors could be at play. Heating problems often stem from issues with the ignition system, gas supply, or heat exchanger components.
Common heating-related problems include:
- Dirty or clogged burners that prevent proper combustion
- Faulty ignition systems, like pilot light issues on older units or problems with direct spark or hot surface ignition on modern systems
- Problems with the gas valve or gas supply lines
- Cracked or damaged heat exchangers
- Malfunctioning thermostats or other control systems
- Blocked exhaust vents or flue pipes
Many reasons why a rooftop unit is not heating require professional diagnosis and repair due to safety concerns with gas components. A qualified technician can identify what components are involved in the problem and recommend reliable, long-term solutions.
Rooftop AC unit not working or cooling
Summer cooling problems can bring business operations to a standstill in Edison’s hot, humid climate. When your rooftop AC unit is not working at its best, the issue may relate to refrigerant problems, compressor failures, or airflow restrictions.
Typical cooling system problems include:
- Low refrigerant levels due to leaks in the system
- Compressor failures or electrical issues
- Dirty or blocked condenser coils reducing heat transfer efficiency
- Malfunctioning expansion valves or metering devices
- Problems with the evaporator coil or indoor air handler
- Clogged air filters restricting proper airflow through the building
Checking for refrigerant leaks requires EPA Section 608 certification. Professional rooftop unit repair services can accurately diagnose leaks, test compressor functionality, and clean coils to restore proper cooling performance.
Electrical or control board failures
Modern rooftop HVAC systems for commercial properties rely heavily on electronic controls and circuit boards to manage operation. These components are susceptible to power surges, moisture infiltration, and regular wear and tear over time. Installing power surge protection can help prevent electrical failures and extend equipment life.
Electrical problems with rooftop HVAC systems may include:
- Complete system failure to start or respond to thermostat commands.
- Erratic operation or random shutdowns during seemingly normal operation.
- Unexpectedly blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers.
- Malfunctioning contractors, relays, or capacitors.
- Damaged wiring connections due to constant weather exposure.
- Control board failures affecting system communication.
Our experienced technicians can diagnose electrical issues using specialized testing equipment, identifying faulty components and restoring proper system operation as quickly as possible.
Poor airflow or no air coming out
Adequate airflow is vital for proper heating and cooling performance in commercial spaces. Airflow problems often result from blocked filters, fan motor issues, or ductwork problems.
The most common airflow issues include:
- Extremely dirty filters blocking air movement through the system
- Fan motor problems or belt issues affecting blower operation
- Damaged or disconnected ductwork reducing conditioned air delivery
- Blocked or closed dampers in the air distribution system
- Obstructions around the rooftop HVAC unit affecting air intake or discharge
Regular filter changes and professional maintenance can prevent many airflow-related problems and reduce the need for emergency rooftop unit repair.
Frozen coils or overheating
Temperature-related problems, such as frozen evaporator coils or overheating components, can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. These issues often result from refrigerant problems, airflow restrictions, or control system malfunctions.
Common problems include:
- Frozen evaporator coils during cooling operation.
- Failed defrost controls in heat pump rooftop units.
- Overheating compressors or motors.
- Ice formation on refrigerant lines.
- High head pressure conditions in the refrigeration system.
- Inadequate heat rejection due to dirty condenser coils.
These conditions require immediate professional attention to prevent permanent damage to expensive system components.
When To Call a Rooftop HVAC Repair Specialist in Edison, NJ
While some basic maintenance tasks can be handled internally, most rooftop unit repair work requires professional expertise. Our specialists have the technical knowledge and experience needed for proper diagnosis and repair.
We recommend professional repair for:
- Any electrical work involving high-voltage components
- Refrigerant handling, which requires EPA certification
- Gas-fired equipment repairs for safety reasons
- Complex diagnostic procedures with specialized equipment
- Warranty work that must be performed by licensed technicians
A properly maintained rooftop HVAC unit typically lasts 15 to 20 years with regular professional service. Most manufacturers recommend servicing rooftop units at least twice yearly, in the spring and the fall. Units operating in more demanding conditions may benefit from quarterly maintenance visits.
Sam’s Air Control provides comprehensive commercial HVAC services throughout Edison, Metuchen, and Central Jersey. We train our experienced technicians on all major rooftop unit brands, enabling them to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs and complete system replacements.
For businesses looking to upgrade their systems, programs like the Small Business Direct Install Program initiative through NJ Clean Energy can help offset costs while improving energy efficiency. Available rebates can cover up to 70% of upgrade costs.
Schedule Your Commercial HVAC Service Today
Don’t wait until your rooftop HVAC system fails completely to address problems. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs keep your business comfortable while avoiding costly emergency situations that can disrupt operations.
Our team at Sam’s Air Control has been serving the Central Jersey business community since 2014, building a reputation for honest service and quality workmanship. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or complete system replacement, we’re here to help keep your business running smoothly.
Contact us today to schedule your service online, or call our office to discuss your commercial HVAC needs.
