FAQs
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to your HVAC system. And at Reitmeier, we know that choosing your HVAC service provider is not a decision to be made lightly.
We’d like to thank our clients for generously taking the time to help us identify their most important questions. In answering them here, we hope to clear up any confusion you might have regarding your HVAC system or our services, and to help you move toward the right solution.
Click one of the topics below to see related questions, or scroll down to browse through the entire list. Thank you!
FAQ Topics
About Reitmeier, HVAC Company
How can Reitmeier help manage my HVAC on a tight budget?
We work with your team to identify areas in which your current staff can take on. We can train your staff on these lower level tasks reserving Reitmeier for the more complicated HVAC issues. This should help your ever shrinking budget.
When can Reitemeier get me a budget proposal for a project?
The timing would depend on the complexity and scope of the project. The availability of drawings and owners project requirements can expedite the process. We make every effort to meet or exceed your expectations even if it is only a “budget” proposal. We are sensitive to the fact that your team needs to plan for your capital expenditures and we are happy to assist in any capacity. Click here to submit a quote request.
When can Reitmeier respond for HVAC service and how much will it cost me?
For contract customers we typically respond in two to four hours, even in peak times of the season. Our GPS fleet management system allows us to re-route around heavy traffic areas as well as locate the closest service technician to dispatch to your location. Once the technician makes his diagnosis, he or she will provide you with an estimate for the repair. Click here to submit an HVACA service request.
What makes Reitmeier different from other HVAC mechanical contractors?
In fact, not all mechanical contractors are the same. All Reitmeier team members will show up to your job-site on time, in uniform, with proper personal protective equipment ready to work! We understand that time and budget are the two most critical elements to a successful project. We work to minimize conflicts with other trades through effective communication and safe practices. You are the client, and we know our success hinges on yours.
What makes a Journeyman Service Technician?
Licensing, education and experience. The states of Oregon and Washington require, at a minimum, completion of a four year state approved apprenticeship program, 8,000 hours of on the job experience, continuing education, EPA Universal certification and code updates. We supplement this required training through the curriculum we developed and implement in -house through Reitmeier University.
Does Reitmeier perform any electrical and/or roofing work? If not, can you provide a subcontractor?
We do not perform roofing or line voltage electrical work. Our licensing allows us to perform low voltage cabling and allows for high voltage work within the HVAC unit. We have assembled a team of subcontractors we work with frequently that are in alignment with our core values. We would gladly make some recommendations for you.
How does Reitemeier determine HVAC equipment size?
We utilize a heat load analysis software program to determine proper equipment sizing. The software takes into account number of people, building construction, location and peak loads for both heating and cooling. There are some “rules of thumb” but we generally use them when providing a budget only.
What does Reitmeier do to minimize the impact of refrigerants on our environment?
Researchers have concluded that CFCs are a major source of destruction to the lower atmosphere. Research shows that once they reach the stratosphere, the sun’s ultraviolet rays break down the compound, releasing chlorine. This resulting chlorine is what damages the ozone in a repetitive process. Unfortunately, the length of time that these chemicals cause destruction to the ozone depends upon the refrigerant being broken down – chlorine last for 2 years, and other chemicals for much longer. Reitmeier service technicians are licensed per the EPA requirements. We reclaim and recover ALL refrigerants on site through the use of recovery equipment and ship to a reclaim facility for disposal. Click here to learn more about our sustainable practices.
To learn more, read our blog post: Refrigerants and their impact on the environment
HVAC Equipment
How will a proper HVAC equipment diligence report help me before I purchase a building?
A through due diligence report is critical to the value of your investment. It will determine HVAC deficiencies and possible replacements required in the near future. It can be used in price negotiations before the sale to ensure you will have the needed capital to replace the HVAC equipment if necessary. It can also be used for future budgets for major capital expenditures.
What is the life span of my rooftop HVAC equipment?
The typical useful service life of well-maintained rooftop equipment is 15-20 years. If you are faced with a major repair, in some cases one half of the cost of new equipment , you should seriously consider replacement. Increased efficiencies, environmentally friendly refrigerants and consistent comfort are but a few benefits you can expect.
What will an energy management system do for me?
Energy management systems helps you reduce your buildings energy consumption – putting you in control. Often times you can reduce in-house building staff as the system will alert you when and even before a problem arises. With today’s web and wireless systems your building’s consumption and health can be accessed from anywhere through any smart device, including your phone.
What is the advantage of having HVAC controls in place for emergency situations?
HVAC controls play a vital role in your building and often interface directly with your building’s fire life safety system in case of an event. Stairwell and elevator shafts can be pressurized for safe occupant egress and exit. The systems can be designed and programmed for smoke evacuation for the safety of first responders possible reducing the damage to the structure.
Why does it take 2-8 weeks to replace my HVAC equipment?
As a result of the recent recession, major HVAC equipment manufacturers are practicing “just in time” production. They are producing most HVAC equipment upon order and sometimes average six to eight weeks for production. The majority of the commercial equipment is produced in the mid west and will require trucking. Another critical factor is plan review and permitting. Municipalities have reduced staff in recent years, which extends the permitting process even more.
What is an economizer and how does it work?
The majority of load in a commercial building is cooling. Simply put, the economizer utilizes outside air to cool the building when conditions are favorable, shutting off the mechanical refrigeration which consumes the most energy in an HVAC system. This is also known as “free cooling”.
What is a heat pump and how is it different than a gas unit?
A heat pump is a refrigeration-based reverse cycle HVAC system which uses no fossil fuel to produce heat. Have you ever put your hand over the outdoor unit at your house on a hot day? Did you notice the hot air coming from the fan? A heat pump simply reverses that cycle and, through the refrigeration process, can extract heat from the outdoor air – even as low as 35 degrees – and release it inside for heating purposes. A gas unit is an air conditioner that uses natural gas to produce heat for the space.
Why should I replace a 15 yr old unit if it is still working?
At fifteen plus (15+) years there is a high likelihood of a major component failure. These emergency repairs can be costly (over half the cost of new unit) and are usually not budgeted for. The equipment being manufactured today is many times more efficient, which will create utility savings immediately upon installation.
Why is my thermostat blank?
A blank thermostat is not receiving the electrical voltage from the HVAC unit. A circuit breaker may be tripped or a fuse blown. Please be aware: your HVAC unit will not run without a thermostat.
Why is my compressor a block of ice?
In most cases this is caused by a low refrigerant charge, dirty or blocked evaporator or a dirty filter.
If my compressor is iced-over, should I continue to run or shut down the unit?
When your compressor is iced-over, the best thing to do is turn off the cooling element, then put the fan in the on position at the thermostat. This will assist in melting the ice without damaging the compressor. Please note: if the compressor is a block of ice the indoor coil will be as well. Both will need to be completely de-iced before a service technician can diagnose the problem.
Our unit is running, but we’re not getting any air…
There are several potential causes for this. The majority of the time we find a broken fan belt, due to lack of planned maintenance or a faulty blower motor.
HVAC Service and Scheduling
When can Reitmeier respond for HVAC service and how much will it cost me?
For contract customers we typically respond in two to four hours, even in peak times of the season. Our GPS fleet management system allows us to re-route around heavy traffic areas as well as locate the closest service technician to dispatch to your location. Once the technician makes his diagnosis, he or she will provide you with an estimate for the repair. Click here to submit a service request.
When can Reitemeier get me a budget proposal for a project?
The timing would depend on the complexity and scope of the project. The availability of drawings and owners’ project requirements can expedite the process. We make every effort to meet or exceed your expectations even if it is only a “budget” proposal. We are sensitive to the fact that your team needs to plan for your capital expenditures and we are happy to assist in any capacity. Click here to submit a quote request.
Why does it take 2-8 weeks to replace my HVAC equipment?
As a result of the recent recession, major equipment manufacturers are practicing “just in time” production. They are producing most equipment upon order and sometimes average six to eight weeks for production. The majority of the commercial equipment is produced in the mid west and will require trucking. Another critical factor is plan review and permitting. Municipalities have reduced staff in recent years, which extends the permitting process even more.
Why do I need a scheduled HVAC maintenance plan, when I have a building engineer on site?
Building engineers, while invaluable, deal daily with multiple tasks such as keys, paint and patch, janitorial, roofing, lighting, tenant relations, temperature complaints and landscaping – just to name a few. There are certainly some basic HVAC maintenance tasks such as filter changes that can be successfully completed by in-house staff, however a licensed and trained HVAC service technician should perform the balance of the maintenance. Our staff if trained to find and correct the small issues before they become a large costly repair. Click here to learn more about Reitmeier’s preventative maintenance solutions.
My tenant is responsible for HVAC maintenance, why should I care?
As you know, your tenants don’t own the HVAC equipment, you do. Why would they want to take care of it? They will find the cheapest option, or no maintenance at all, which may not be in your best interest.
Why should I replace a 15 yr old unit if it is still working?
At fifteen plus (15+) years there is a high likelihood of a major component failure. These emergency repairs can be costly (over half the cost of new unit) and are usually not budgeted for. The HVAC equipment being manufactured today is many times more efficient, which will create utility savings immediately upon installation.
When do I need a permit?
All new and replacement projects require permitting. This assures that all mechanical, electrical and building codes are met.
How long does the permitting process take?
The answer depends on the complexity and scope of the project. If plan review is required by the jurisdiction it can take up to four weeks. Some permits are available over-the-counter for small, less complex projects.
Why do I need to include structural engineering?
If you are placing any equipment on the roof it will require engineering to determine the structure’s ability to support the added load. Structural engineering also includes seismic engineering to ensure equipment is properly attached to the structure in the event of high winds or an earthquake. Please note that jurisdictions will vary. Some require engineering for anything 50 lbs and over while others may be 400 lbs and over.
Why do I need to schedule HVAC maintenance if I change my own filters?
Changing air filters is only one of many tasks performed during a comprehensive maintenance. The refrigeration cycle, the heating components, safeties, economizer operation, fan operation and electrical connections are inspected. Our technicians are trained to identify a problem before it becomes a larger expense. We can customize a maintenance program utilizing you staff changing filters and performing lower level tasks.
How will a proper HVAC equipment diligence report help me before I purchase a building?
A through due diligence report is critical to the value of your investment. It will determine HVAC deficiencies and possible replacements required in the near future. It can be used in price negotiations before the sale to ensure you will have the needed capital to replace the HVAC equipment if necessary. It can also be used for future budgets for major capital expenditures.
Environment
How does the Energy Trust of Oregon work to help me?
The Energy Trust of Oregon was created to assist you in making more efficient choices for your building in terms of energy consumption. On every utility you will see a 3% public purpose charge which is pooled and used to provide you with cash incentives for making “green” choices. There are prescriptive, or fixed, incentives available as well as custom incentives tailored to your buildings specific needs. Click here to read more about how our partnership with the Energy Trust of Oregon!
What will an energy management system do for me?
Energy management systems helps you reduce your buildings energy consumption – putting you in control. Often times you can reduce in-house building staff as the system will alert you when and even before a problem arises. With today’s web and wireless systems your building’s consumption and health can be accessed from anywhere through any smart device, including your phone.
Why is outside air important for our people?
Today’s buildings are constructed extremely “tight” to prevent costly air infiltration. Outside air introduced into your building is not only a building code requirement but helps control the CO2 levels within the space providing for a more fresh and comfortable environment.
What does Reitmeier do to minimize the impact of refrigerants on our environment?
Researchers have concluded that CFCs are a major source of destruction to the lower atmosphere. Research shows that once they reach the stratosphere, the sun’s ultraviolet rays break down the compound, releasing chlorine. This resulting chlorine is what damages the ozone in a repetitive process. Unfortunately, the length of time that these chemicals cause destruction to the ozone depends upon the refrigerant being broken down – chlorine last for 2 years, and other chemicals for much longer. Reitmeier service technicians are licensed per the EPA requirements. We reclaim and recover ALL refrigerants on site through the use of recovery equipment and ship to a reclaim facility for disposal. Click here to learn more about our sustainable practices.
To learn more, read our blog post: Refrigerants and their impact on the environment
HVAC Costs
How can Reitmeier help manage my HVAC on a tight budget?
We work with your team to identify areas in which your current staff can take on. We can train your staff on these lower level tasks reserving Reitmeier for the more complicated HVAC issues. This should help your ever shrinking budget.
When can Reitmeier respond for HVAC service and how much will it cost me?
For contract customers we typically respond in two to four hours, even in peak times of the season. Our GPS fleet management system allows us to re-route around heavy traffic areas as well as locate the closest service technician to dispatch to your location. Once the technician makes his diagnosis, he or she will provide you with an estimate for the repair. Click here to submit a service request.
When can Reitemeier get me a budget proposal for a project?
The timing would depend on the complexity and scope of the project. The availability of drawings and owners project requirements can expedite the process. We make every effort to meet or exceed your expectations even if it is only a “budget” proposal. We are sensitive to the fact that your team needs to plan for your capital expenditures and we are happy to assist in any capacity. Click here to submit a quote request.
What tax credits are available for HVAC equipment?
In the past, the State of Oregon offered tax credits through the BETC program. That program is no longer available. There may be some Federal tax incentives available. We would recommend you consult your CPA firm for confirmation.
What will an energy management system do for me?
Energy management systems helps you reduce your buildings energy consumption – putting you in control. Often times you can reduce in-house building staff as the system will alert you when and even before a problem arises. With today’s web and wireless systems your building’s consumption and health can be accessed from anywhere through any smart device, including your phone.
Why is outside air important for our people?
Today’s buildings are constructed extremely “tight” to prevent costly air infiltration. Outside air introduced into your building is not only a building code requirement but helps control the CO2 levels within the space providing for a more fresh and comfortable environment.
What does Reitmeier do to minimize the impact of refrigerants on our environment?
Researchers have concluded that CFCs are a major source of destruction to the lower atmosphere. Research shows that once they reach the stratosphere, the sun’s ultraviolet rays break down the compound, releasing chlorine. This resulting chlorine is what damages the ozone in a repetitive process. Unfortunately, the length of time that these chemicals cause destruction to the ozone depends upon the refrigerant being broken down – chlorine last for 2 years, and other chemicals for much longer. Reitmeier service technicians are licensed per the EPA requirements. We reclaim and recover ALL refrigerants on site through the use of recovery equipment and ship to a reclaim facility for disposal. Click here to learn more about our sustainable practices.
To learn more, read our blog post: Refrigerants and their impact on the environment
Couldn’t find the answer to your HVAC question? Get in touch with us today!