Lifespan of HVAC Systems in Condos: An Expert Guide

Knowing the HVAC Lifespan In Your Condo can help you Plan & Budget for Maintenance, Repair and Replacement when necessary. Regular maintenance and good repair practices will eliminate the root cause of issues associated with in-suite HVAC systems. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the Average Lifespan of Five (5) Common HVAC Systems Used In Condos: Fan coil systems, Heat pumps, PTAC…
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Understanding Fan Coil Actuators in Condo HVAC Systems

In a condo fan coil system, the actuator is a motorized device responsible for controlling valve operations. Working harmoniously with the thermostat, it regulates the room temperature by managing the flow of hot or cold water through the coil. Actuator failures are one of the major reported reasons for service calls when it comes to…
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Condo ERV Repair & Maintenance – Importance of Air Balancing

ERV, also known as Energy Recovery Ventilator, is an integral part of a home’s ventilation system. These systems are designed to improve indoor air quality by bringing fresh outdoor air while exhausting stale indoor air. They work by transferring the energy from the outgoing exhaust air to the incoming fresh air, which helps to precondition…
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Flashing HPS Red Light on Your Condo Heat Pump System

If you notice a red high-pressure switch (HPS) light on your condo heat pump’s circuit board, it typically signals an issue related to elevated refrigerant pressure. The HPS serves as a safety mechanism, designed to deactivate the heat pump compressor when refrigerant pressure becomes excessively high. This illuminated light indicates a potential problem requiring expert…
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Why Do Condo Heat Pumps Fail In Winter?

Condo Heat Pumps aka Water Source Heat Pumps have different requirements during heating or air conditioning seasons. By understanding these requirements and taking preventative measures, residents & property managers can ensure optimal performance throughout the cold season. What Are The 5 Most Common Reasons Condo Heat Pumps Fail During Winter? 1. Low Water Temperature Low…
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Who’s Responsible for In-Suite HVAC Repairs in Condos?

In general, condo owners are typically responsible for emergency repairs and maintenance of their in-suite heating, air conditioning, and ventilation (HVAC) systems, including fan coils, heat pumps, ERV, bathroom fans, exhaust fans, and other appliances.While buildings may generally conduct annual or semi-annual maintenance, cleaning, and filter changes, this is not a requirement but rather done…
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Why My Condo Heater Blowing Cold Air?

If you’re a condo owner, you know how important it is to have a functional heating system during the colder months. Unfortunately, there may come a time when your condo heater starts to blow cold air instead of hot. This can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to fix the problem.…
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What To Expect Before & After Condo Fan Coil Replacement?

Are you currently scheduled for a Fan Coil Replacement? Here is how you can prepare before & after the work is completed:  Book the service elevator for the day of installation. Ensure there would be a minimum of 6 ft or 2 Metres clearance around the fan coil area. Our technicians will be using different…
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Furnace Prices In 2023 | Toronto & GTA

Are you looking for a new furnace in Toronto? Our comprehensive guide to furnace prices in Toronto will help you understand the factors that impact the cost of a new furnace and installation, including the size of the furnace, its efficiency rating, and the complexity of the peojct. Get started by comparing quotes from local heating and cooling…
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Omega Heat Pump Flashing LPS Red Light. What Does It Mean?

A red low-pressure switch (LPS) light on a condo heat pump circuit board or control panel typically indicates that the system is experiencing low refrigerant pressure. The LPS is a safety pressure switch that is designed to shut off the heat pump if the refrigerant pressure in the system becomes too low. When the light…
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How To Tender Your Building Fan Coil or Heat Pump Projects?

Many property managers struggle with older In-Suite HVAC systems once they pass the expected life expectancy. Whether you are looking to do annual/semi-annual maintenance or building a wide HVAC retrofit project, the board of directors will need to have a proper tendering process to select the right contractor for your building. Here we outlined a…
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How Long Do Fan Coil Units Last? – Home Trade Standards

How Long Do Fan Coil Units Last? Fan Coil units are designed to operate for 20 years according to manufacturer specifications. Studies found many risks associated with fan coil systems exceeding 20 years of lifespan. Fan Coils are the most commonly installed HVAC systems in Toronto’s low rise & high rise residential condo buildings. Fan…
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How Long Do Fan Coil Units Last?

Fan Coil units are designed to operate for 20 years according to manufacturer specifications. Studies found many risks associated with fan coil systems exceeding 20 years of lifespan.

Fan Coils are the most commonly installed HVAC systems in Toronto’s low rise & high rise residential condo buildings. Fan coils may come in horizontal & vertical positions.

Who Is Responsible For Fan Coils In Condos?

 Fan Coil systems are typically the owner’s responsibility when it comes to emergency repair or replacement. To learn more about your condo responsibilities please contact your property manager or refer to condo bylaws.

Fan coil units are designed with 7 critical components.
1. Fan Motor Assembly
2. Coil
3. Drain Pan
4. Supply & Return Shut-Off Valves
5. Control Board
6. Thermostat
7. Cabinet & Pipe Insulation

Contact Us Today

If your building is older than 20 years old, please contact us directly to schedule an appointment for an onsite engineering assessment. We work closely with condo board members and residents to deliver the most reliable Condo HVAC Services in Toronto & GTA.

 

 

Although Fan Coil Units are independent systems in each apartment, they are still connected to the building boiler & chiller systems. Central HVAC systems in your building heat or cool water & distribute the water through a vertical riser pipe network to individual fan coil units.

Fan Coils units can be designed with 2 pipe or 4 pipe configurations. 2-pipe systems can only provide heating or cooling whereas 4-pipe fan coil units are equipped to provide both heating & cooling at any time of the year as long as central HVAC systems are activated. The majority of buildings in Toronto use 2 pipe fan coil units.

 

Fan Coil Replacement Toronto – Customer Review

★★★★★

Our former property manager recommended us with 2 HVAC companies but after seeing the high rating of Home Trade Standards on Google reviews and HomeStars, we decided to give HTS a call. Home Trade Standards was wonderful, and he was quick to answer our texts. The technician Mike did an amazing job installing 2 of our fan coil units. They were friendly, polite and knowledgeable. We are very pleased to receive excellent customer service from Home Trade Standards!!

Loc P.

 

Why Should I Replace My Fan Coil Unit?

Canadians spend 90% of their time indoors, especially during the winter season. Older fan coil units can negatively impact a healthy indoor air environment. Understanding the impacts of bad indoor air will allow condominium owners, managers, tenants & landlords to make the right decisions about older HVAC systems in your condo.

How Does Your Fan Coil Cause Serious Health & Safety Issues?

Older Fan Coils contain fiberglass insulation and when they become wet or moist from condensation, they provide an ideal environment for mould & spores to grow & multiply. Mould growth inside the fan coil cabinet will release airborne particles into the suite and when inhaled, the particles can result in long-term health problems such as asthma, chronic sinusitis, coughing, and severe allergy.

Water Damage & Liability Results In Legal Costs

According to TD Insurance, more than 40% of Condo Insurance Claims are due to Flooding In Condos in recent years. These issues can occur more often in order fan coil systems. Water damage in older condos can cause higher building insurance as well as liability risks for property managers and residents in the building.

Contact Us Today

If your building is older than 20 years old, please contact us directly to schedule an appointment for an onsite engineering assessment. We work closely with condo board members and residents to deliver the most reliable Condo HVAC Services in Toronto & GTA Area.

Condo Renovation Toronto & GTA - HVAC & Plumbing 2023
Condo Renovation Toronto & GTA - HVAC & Plumbing 2023

Before & After Fan Coil Replacement

What a Brend New Fan Coil Retrofit Offer

  • The entire cabinet interior insulation, all old components, including coil, actuator, motor, blower housing assembly, drain pan & electronics will be removed & replaced with brand new parts & durable plumbing material. 
  • Brand New Supply & Return 1/2 “ Safety shut-off valves will be installed (If it is not corporation responsibility*)
  • New energy-efficient motor ECM Variable Speed Technology will be installed for energy saving & lower noise levels.
  • New 24V Suite Pro Digital Honeywell Thermostat will be installed at the same location as your previous thermostat.
  • Optional items such as Access Panel Doors & Grilles With Dampers can be installed upon request. 
  • New electronics & wiring allow Smart Thermostat Compatibility as an added feature to your new system. If you are interested in NEST or Ecobee products, simply ask us to bring you the right model. We can install and provide training upon request. 
  • Better Air Flow & Air Circulation Throughout your condo. 
  • Get a new status certificate from your property manager. You can now claim a newly installed fan coil system on your status certificate. This will distinguish your suit from your neighbours for potential future or existing buyers.

If your building is older than 20 years old, please contact us directly to schedule an appointment for an onsite engineering assessment. We work closely with condo board members and residents to deliver the most reliable Condo HVAC Services in Toronto & GTA Area.

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    Knowing the HVAC Lifespan In Your Condo can help you Plan & Budget for Maintenance, Repair and Replacement when necessary. Regular maintenance and good repair practices will eliminate the root cause of issues associated with in-suite HVAC systems. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the Average Lifespan of Five (5) Common HVAC Systems Used In Condos: Fan coil systems, Heat pumps, PTAC units, Magic Pak, Air Handlers & High-Velocity Systems.

    Call Us Now (416) 736-7001 to Speak With a Live Agent

    Contact Us Today!

    How Long Do Condo HVAC Units Last?

    1. Fan Coil Units

    Condo Fan coil Units are the most widely used HVAC system in Toronto & GTA. They can last for an average of 20 to 25 years. Their simple design and use of serviceable components make them durable and long-lasting. However, regular maintenance and proper usage are crucial for extending the lifespan of fan coil systems. 

    Condo-Heat-Pump-Compressor-Problem-Toronto

     Pros:

    • Durable and long-lasting due to the simple design and serviceable components. Last longer than the majority of HVAC systems in condos.
    • Offers flexibility in terms of serviceability.

    Cons:

    • Can be noisy due to the fan and blower motor operation.
    • Requires regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent clogging and dirt buildup.
    • Fan Coils can cause leaks or flood and damage neighbouring units.

    2. Condo Heat Pumps

    Condo Heat pumps are the second most common condo HVAC systems and have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. The lifespan of these systems mainly depends on the frequency of use and proper maintenance. Due expensive cost of maintenance & repairs, many homeowners decide to replace their heat pumps sooner than their real expectancy. Pros:

    • Provides both heating and cooling, making it a versatile system for year-round use.
    • Offer the highest Energy efficiency rating among all condo HVAC systems, with the ability to transfer heat rather than generate it.

    Cons:

    • Highly dependent on building water temperature & water flow. Limited performance in extreme temperatures makes it less suitable for areas with extreme climates.
    • Expensive maintenance & repair requirements for proper performance and prevent refrigerant leaks.
    • Require specialized HVAC/R technicians for repair & troubleshooting purposes.

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    3. PTAC Units

    PTAC (packaged terminal air conditioner) units are widespread in older condos converted from commercial buildings to residential status. With an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Their compact design and easy installation make them a convenient option for condo living. These systems use a simple design like fan coil units. the upside is that they are independent heating & cooling systems from the rest of the building. Pros:

    • Easy installation and flexibility in terms of unit placement.
    • Can be individually controlled for personalized temperature preferences.

    Cons:

    • Can be noisy due to the fan and compressor operation.
    • Less energy efficient than other HVAC systems, resulting in higher energy costs over time.

    4. Condo Magic Pak or Condo Pack

    Condo magic pak or condo pack units are also commonly used in condos and can last for an average of 15 to 25 years. Their compact design and easy installation make them a popular option for condo living. They operate using electricity or natural gas. Pros:

    • All-in-one stand-alone heating & air conditioning system and easy installation make it a popular option for condos.
    • It can operate using electricity or natural gas, offering flexibility in terms of energy sources.

    Cons:

    • Limited air conditioning serviceability (cooling compartment) compared to other HVAC systems.
    • It will have a higher upfront cost compared to other Condo HVAC systems.

    5. High-Velocity Systems

    These systems have an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years. High-velocity systems are a type of HVAC system that utilizes smaller, high-pressure ductwork to deliver cool or warm air at a high velocity. High-velocity systems are commonly used in condo townhouses & low-rise buildings. Overall, high-velocity systems are an excellent option for homeowners and building owners who need efficient heating and cooling solutions in tight spaces without sacrificing comfort or energy efficiency. Pros

    • Offers versatility in terms of heating, cooling, and ventilation functions.
    • Can be customized for specific building requirements and space limitations.

    Cons:

    • Require higher upfront costs for replacement purposes
    • Take up more space due to the requirement of having indoor and outdoor units.
    • Difficult accessibility due to limited space.

    Are You Looking To Increase The Lifespan of Your Condo HVAC Systems?

    Regular maintenance and good repair practices will eliminate the root cause of issues associated with in-suite HVAC systems. Our goal is to extend the lifespan of your system and ensure a comfortable living environment for years to come. Need help?

    CONTACT INFORMATION

    Kevin Moeini – Business Development Manager Home Trade Standards – Condo HVAC Specialists – Serving Toronto & GTA Email: [email protected] | Tel: 416-736-7001

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