Make-up air units: the unsung hero of apartment towers and high-rises across Edmonton. Often overlooked, these units introduce clean, fresh air into the common areas of buildings. In this blog post, we’ll break down the function of these systems, their maintenance requirements, and how they integrate into your larger commercial HVAC system.
What Are Make-Up Air Systems?
Make-up air units (MUA) serve a critical role in many Edmonton buildings by replacing exhausted air with fresh outdoor air. This helps maintain proper air pressure and improve indoor air quality. With a proper make-up air unit, your building could be faced with pressure problems, dangerous backdrafts, and air cleanliness issues.
Here in Edmonton, make-up air systems face demanding conditions year-round. From bringing in -30°C winter air to managing humidity during summer months, these units work constantly to keep your building comfortable. A properly maintained make-up air unit typically lasts 20 to 30 years, but without regular professional servicing, problems develop that can compromise safety and efficiency.
Make-Up Air Unit Maintenance: The Essentials
Now that you understand the importance of these HVAC systems, let’s cover another key element: proper maintenance. Without regular inspections, maintenance, and repairs, you could be faced with a MUA that dies prematurely or costs you thousands in emergency repair bills. Investing in regular maintenance is key. Here’s what a comprehensive plan from an expert building maintenance provider usually includes:
- Reviewing and assessing how the MUA is functioning. If there are any issues or alerts, they are recorded.
- Ensuring all controls and integrated safety systems are functioning correctly.
- Replacing MUA filters according to the maintenance schedule, usually around every 2-3 months.
- Perform a preliminary check on all mechanical elements to ensure there’s no loose bolts, unusual noises, vibration or discolouration.
- Inspect specific elements, including V belts, blower pulleys and belts, sensors, and other electrical components.
- Complete final tests to ensure the MUA and thermostat are calibrated correctly.
Make-Up Air Units and More: A Complete Commercial HVAC System
While MUAs are important, they are just one piece of the puzzle. These systems need to work with your rooftop HVAC units, coordinate with exhaust systems, sync with heating systems, and even protect your plumbing systems. At Karlen-Kada, we understand the importance of an integrated commercial HVAC system. When we service, install, or repair these units, our technicians will ensure that every component works together. Some benefits of our integrated approach include:
- Comprehensive maintenance plans that ensure nothing gets missed. From furnace inspections to seasonal turnover tasks, we’ll design a mechanical maintenance plan that is customized to your needs
- Guarantee optimal performance when all your systems are operating at peak efficiency. You’ll feel the effects of this integration at every level, from tenant satisfaction all the way to year-over-year cost savings.
- Seamless project delivery takes the headache out of property management. Instead of juggling contacts, invoices, and timelines, the Karlen-Kada team will take care of it all, leaving you more time to focus on the things that matter.
Trust Karlen-Kada for Make-Up Air Unit Maintenance & Replacement
When it comes to your commercial HVAC needs, our expert team is here to help. Plus, our experience doesn’t stop there! With over 5 decades of experience, our team can take care of your mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection needs–all under one roof. That means one company, one contact, one call. Ready to find your next partner in building success? Call our team or request a quote today.
