Running a restaurant involves prioritizing the comfort of patrons, chefs, and waitstaff. Functional HVAC equipment regulates indoor temperatures and increases air quality, creating a more pleasant atmosphere in the kitchen and dining areas. If you’re opening a restaurant in the near future, here’s what you should know about commercial AC and heating installations as well as the importance of regular maintenance.

Common Problems With Restaurant HVAC Equipment

Cooking in restaurant kitchens produces smoke and gases that exit through exhaust fans and vent hoods. Commercial HVAC systems that don’t supply enough “make-up” air—or fresh air that takes the place of contaminated air—can dry out kitchen areas, making it difficult for prep cooks and chefs to breathe comfortably. 

An important aspect of an HVAC installation is choosing a correctly sized system. If the unit has a capacity of fewer than six tons, it may not efficiently condition and ventilate the air in the entire building. 

Additionally, the placement of outdoor units makes a difference. Those installed on the ground level near dining room windows may operate noisily and disturb patrons.

Meanwhile, unsealed ductwork or ducts made from weak metal can cause your restaurant’s HVAC system to overwork, resulting in elevated energy expenses. You might also notice weak airflow from vents and fluctuations in indoor temperatures. 

Why Professional Installation & Maintenance Matters 

During your cooling and heating installation, your contractor will provide you with a system that has enough power to efficiently meet the needs of your restaurant’s square footage. If your building has a commercial flat roof, they’ll install the outdoor unit there for unobtrusive operation. 

As your restaurant flourishes, an HVAC contractor will maintain your system to ensure adequate make-up air. They can install a make-up unit as an accessory to your main system to promote ventilation and fresh airflow. 

As part of routine upkeep, a technician will inspect ducts and seals to promote efficiency. They may also recommend installing new ductwork made from durable steel that can handle the air pressure required to heat and cool large spaces. 

Keep your restaurant comfortable and your HVAC equipment operational with help from ZAP Heating & Cooling. They provide full-service air conditioning and heating installations along with repairs and routine maintenance to Cleveland, GA, and the surrounding communities. Call (706) 219-1709 to get a quote on a commercial system or set up a maintenance appointment for existing equipment. Visit the website to learn more about how this HVAC contractor will promote indoor air quality in your home or small business.