If you have a rooftop HVAC unit, it’s easy to keep it out of sight and out of mind when the building temperature feels comfortable. What you might not realize is the toll it might be taking on your roof. Whether you installed your HVAC system years ago or are looking to build a new commercial building, keep in mind the challenges, advantages, and disadvantages of a rooftop unit.
Challenges That Accompany Rooftop HVAC Systems
Improper Installation
High-quality flat roofs are durable and able to withstand incredible amounts of weight, but HVAC units are still big heavy objects. If your unit isn’t installed correctly, it could damage your roof and cause deterioration. It’s important to have a roofing contractor present while the HVAC unit is being installed to ensure both the unit and the roof are well maintained during installation.
Foot Traffic on the Roof
One of the biggest advantages of having your HVAC unit on the roof is keeping it out of sight, but this also means any work done on the unit will take place there. It’s essential to get your unit inspected and for your technician to perform timely maintenance, but even their foot traffic can harm the membrane of your roof if they don’t know the proper protocol. You should have established walkways that lead to the unit, and make sure any technician who needs access to the roof follows them.
Water Pooling Around the Unit
Have you noticed any leaks in your roof? This could be caused by your HVAC unit in one of two ways:
- The unit wasn’t properly installed.
If your unit wasn’t properly installed in the first place, the technician could have left damage on the roof membrane causing cracks. Improper installation can also cause low spots in the roof and result in water pooling.
- The unit could be faulty and not vaporizing water correctly.
HVAC units should be vaporizing water and releasing it back into the air, but faulty units fail to vaporize any moisture. This could also cause water to pool around the base of the unit.
In either instance, water pooling on your roof from rain or the unit’s inability to vaporize water can lead to roof deterioration and leaks. You can help prevent water pooling and leaks by getting your unit and roof regularly inspected by an HVAC technician and roofing contractor.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Rooftop HVAC Unit
While there are certain challenges you need to be aware of for a rooftop unit, that shouldn’t discourage you from installing one—they just require proper care. Whether you’re reconsidering your current unit or building a new commercial building, you should weigh the pros and cons of a rooftop HVAC unit.
Rooftop HVAC Unit Benefits
- They save space by utilizing your roof space
- Keeping them on the roof eliminates noise pollution inside the building
- They are often more energy-efficient because cold air naturally sinks
- Technicians can often access the unit more easily
Downsides to a Rooftop HVAC Unit
- They require a more experienced technician, preferably along with a roofing contractor, to properly install
- Your unit, and subsequently your roof, experience more adverse effects from weather conditions such as heavy rain and high winds
- Improper care can lead to costly repairs for both your HVAC system and your roof
Call Duerson for Roofing Inspections & Repairs
Rooftop HVAC units present some challenges, but those can be remedied by partnering with a trusted roofing contractor. Our technicians can accompany HVAC unit installations, perform inspections on current units, or make repairs as needed for your roof. Contact us to ensure your roof is getting the care it needs.