Proper heating and air conditioning are critical to any restaurant’s success. The right HVAC system provides a comfortable environment for customers to dine in and ensures staff can work safely and efficiently in a properly ventilated kitchen. Here’s what you need to know for setting up your establishment’s heating and cooling equipment.

A Brief Guide to HVAC Equipment in Restaurants 

HVAC Equipment for Restaurants vs. Residence

Restaurants have special needs that require more complex HVAC components than a residential system. Unlike houses, restaurants’ temperatures fluctuate greatly between the kitchen and dining room and can change quickly based on the number of diners. A restaurant HVAC’s design must control the climate of multiple rooms at once, adequately cooling or heating outside air before it enters the kitchen while maintaining stable temperatures in the dining room. Some advanced HVAC systems even have technology that can adjust climate using ventilated air from the outdoors.   

Restaurants also accumulate more air pollution than homes from excessive cooking fumes, grease, and cleaning supplies. As a result, there should be multiple exhausts and hoods strategically placed throughout the kitchen that can adjust the power to save on energy during less busy hours. The equipment must also pull enough makeup air from the outdoors to compensate for air expelled by the exhausts. Too much or too little makeup air can result in drafts, poor air quality, and a decrease in energy efficiency.

Common Problems with Restaurant HVAC Systems

Just as they have their own needs, restaurant HVAC systems also come with their unique issues. Common malfunctions include inconsistent temperatures throughout the restaurant and reduced air pressure, which can result from leaky ductwork. Your restaurant’s heating and air conditioning may also produce foul odors caused by dirty filters or stagnant water. Finally, if you notice unusual noises coming from any of the equipment, be sure to call a repairman: there may be loose parts somewhere in the system.   

The best way to prevent problems with your HVAC system is to service it regularly. Consistent inspection and cleaning help you catch damages or malfunctions before they evolve into larger issues. Proper maintenance also means it stays in top condition, so your customers will never have to experience a stuffy or humid meal.

Consult the team at Smith Air Conditioning Inc. in Ville Platte, LA, for all your cooling and air conditioning needs. With more than 50 years of experience, their team uses the latest equipment to install commercial and residential HVAC systems and even offers a year warranty on repairs. Whether you need a new unit or regular servicing, you can count on them to get the job done smoothly. Call (337) 363-1866 for a free estimate or find out more on their website.