1. What’s the best type of air conditioning system for my business?

The right system depends on the size, layout, and usage of your Brisbane, Sunshine Coast or Gold Coast commercial premises. Common options include:

• Ducted systems (ideal for large open-plan offices or retail)
• Split systems (good for individual rooms or small zones)
• VRV/VRF systems (flexible for multi-level or multi-zone buildings)

Shelair offers a free consultation to help determine what’s best for your needs and budget.

2. How often should commercial air conditioning systems be serviced?

For most businesses in Brisbane or on the Gold Coast, servicing should occur every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage and environment. Regular maintenance:

• Prevents breakdowns
• Improves energy efficiency
• Ensures compliance with workplace health and safety standards

Shelair offers Preventative Maintenance Agreements (PMAs) tailored to your site and equipment.

3. What’s included in a typical commercial AC service?

Our standard service includes:

• Checking filters, coils, and drains
• Inspecting refrigerant levels and pressure
• Testing electrical components and airflow
• Cleaning external and internal units
• Identifying any early signs of wear or failure

A detailed written report for each equipment asset is provided after each service visit.

4. How long does a commercial installation take?

That depends on the size and complexity of the system. As a general guide:

• Small offices: 1–3 days
• Medium commercial spaces: 3–7 days
• Large or multi-site installations: 1–3 weeks

We’ll provide a clear timeline after conducting a site assessment.

5. Can you help with existing systems not installed by you?

Yes. We service and repair all major brands and systems — even if we didn’t install them. Our technicians are fully licensed and experienced with legacy units, ductwork issues, and control systems.

6. What causes air conditioning to run inefficiently?

Common causes include:

• Blocked filters or vents
• Poorly sized systems
• Lack of maintenance
• Thermostat faults or poor placement

We can conduct an efficiency audit to pinpoint the issue and recommend solutions.

7. Do you offer emergency breakdown services?

Yes. We provide 24/7 emergency support for critical commercial systems. If your AC goes down during business hours or overnight, we can dispatch a technician promptly.

8. What’s the expected lifespan of a commercial air conditioning unit?

With regular maintenance, most systems last 10–15 years. However, lifespan varies based on:

• Brand and build quality
• Usage levels
• Environmental conditions
• Frequency of maintenance

If your system is over 10 years old, ask us about efficiency upgrades or replacement planning.

9. Is zoning possible with commercial air conditioning?

Absolutely. Modern systems (especially ducted and VRF/VRV) support zoning, allowing you to control temperature in different areas of your building independently — improving comfort and reducing energy costs.

10. Can I monitor and control the system remotely?

Yes. Many systems now include smart controls that allow remote access via smartphone or building management systems (BMS). These can:

• Monitor performance and energy use
• Schedule operating hours
• Adjust settings remotely

We can supply and install the right smart controls for your business.

💬 Still Have Questions?

Get in touch with our team for a tailored consultation or quote. We’ll help you choose, install, or maintain the right commercial air conditioning system — no pressure, just expert advice.

📞 Call us on (07) 3204 9511
📧 Email: info@shelair.com.au
🖱️ Book a site assessment

📰 Enjoyed this article?

Browse more helpful insights and case studies on our Shelair Insights Blog

Why our 5-Year Workmanship Guarantee Matters for Commercial HVAC in Brisbane, Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast

Shelair backs all commercial air conditioning installations across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast with a 5-year workmanship guarantee — delivering quality, reliability, and peace of mind.

Long-Term Confidence in Every Installation

At Shelair, we don’t just install commercial air conditioning systems — we stand behind our work. Every project we complete across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast comes with our 5-year workmanship guarantee, ensuring long-term reliability, safety, and performance.

When you engage Shelair, you’re partnering with a contractor who takes accountability for quality — not just on the day of installation, but for the years that follow.

Rooftop commercial HVAC installation by Shelair — serving Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast businesses

What Our Guarantee Covers

Our 5-year workmanship guarantee applies to all commercial air conditioning systems installed and maintained in accordance with manufacturers specifications by Shelair’s licensed HVAC technicians. It includes:

• Rectification of faults caused by installation workmanship (e.g. poor sealing, alignment, wiring, or commissioning errors).

• Labour costs to correct any workmanship-related defect identified within five years of practical completion.

• Coordination with equipment suppliers where manufacturer warranty overlaps with workmanship issues.

This guarantee ensures your system performs as intended — compliant, efficient, and built to last.

Why It Matters to Your Business

• Reduced risk: You’re protected against costly rework or performance issues caused by installation errors.

• Peace of mind: Our experienced team follows proven installation standards and quality checks.

• Compliance and reputation: Meets commercial requirements for warranty coverage, insurance audits, and facility management reporting.

• Long-term savings: Proper installation reduces energy waste and extends equipment life — saving thousands in running costs.

Maintenance and Service Requirements

To maintain guarantee validity, Shelair requires the system to be serviced in accordance with our preventative maintenance program or another equivalent schedule approved by us.

Clients on a Shelair maintenance plan receive:

• Priority response times for service calls.

• Discounted rates on repairs outside the guarantee scope.

• Continuous performance tracking and reporting to help prevent failures.

Exclusions — What’s Not Covered

To keep things clear, our 5-year workmanship guarantee does not cover:

• Faults covered by manufacturer warranty (including component or factory defects).
• Damage or failure caused by misuse, neglect, or unauthorised modification.
• Issues resulting from lack of maintenance, dirty filters, or restricted airflow.
• Environmental or external damage (e.g. storms, salt spray/air, flooding, corrosion, vermin, or power surges).
• Access costs (e.g. scaffolding or lift hire) required to perform repairs.
• Work performed, altered, or interfered with by non-Shelair personnel.
• Consequential losses such as business interruption, downtime, or loss of income.
• Situations where Shelair determines that the fault or failure is not attributable to workmanship.

These exclusions ensure fairness and transparency — our guarantee covers workmanship, not misuse or external factors beyond our control.

Setting the Industry Standard

Many HVAC contractors offer only a 12-month workmanship warranty. Shelair goes further — our 5-year workmanship guarantee sets a higher benchmark for accountability, reliability, and customer value across South East Queensland.

When you choose Shelair, you’re choosing a company that stands by its word, its team, and its work.

Talk to Shelair About Your Next Project

Partner with a contractor who delivers quality — and stands behind it.

📞 Call Shelair: 07 3204 9511
📧 Email: info@shelair.com.au
🌐 Visit: Shelair Insights for expert HVAC tips, case studies, and maintenance advice.

If your commercial air conditioning system in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or the Sunshine Coast seems to run constantly—but your energy bills keep climbing—your filters might be to blame.

In large HVAC systems, especially those using bag filters or multi-stage filtration, dirty filters don’t just affect air quality. They create resistance, forcing the fans and compressors to work harder. The result? Higher energy bills, unnecessary wear, and shorter equipment life.

Let’s look at how regular filter maintenance can dramatically cut your power use and extend the life of your air conditioning system.

Why Dirty Filters Increase Your Energy Costs

When filters become clogged with dust or debris, air can’t flow freely through the system. The air handling unit (AHU) or fan motor has to push harder to maintain airflow, driving up electricity consumption and reducing cooling efficiency.

In systems with bag filters—common in offices, schools, hospitals, and retail spaces—this restriction often builds up slowly and goes unnoticed until:

• The system starts straining under load

• Fan motors overheat

• Cooling output drops

• Power bills spike

A neglected HVAC bag filter from a commercial site in Brisbane — clogged with dust and debris, reducing airflow and driving up energy costs. Regular maintenance prevents this.

The Role of Bag Filters in Commercial HVAC

Bag (or pocket) filters are designed to trap fine airborne particles as part of a multi-stage filtration setup. They’re widely used in commercial and industrial buildings to maintain clean indoor air and protect equipment.

However, because these filters can hold a large volume of dust, especially in urban or industrial areas like Brisbane and the Gold Coast, they can easily become a major airflow bottleneck if not maintained.

Energy Savings from Clean Filters

Studies from the U.S. Department of Energy and local Australian efficiency data show that:

• Replacing or cleaning clogged filters can reduce HVAC energy use by 5%–15%.

• In large commercial systems, that can mean thousands of dollars in annual savings.

• Clean filters also reduce strain on fan motors, compressors, and coils, preventing expensive breakdowns.

Signs It’s Time to Clean or Replace Filters

• Higher-than-usual electricity bills

• Reduced airflow from vents

• Uneven cooling or heating

• Unusual fan noise

• Dust buildup on return air grills

Best Practices for Filter Maintenance

Inspect Monthly: Especially during summer or heavy-use periods.

Monitor Pressure Differential: Install gauges to measure airflow resistance and know when filters need replacing.

Replace on Schedule: Most commercial bag filters should be replaced every 3–6 months, depending on use and air quality.

Implement a Preventative Maintenance Plan:
Shelair offers tailored commercial air conditioning maintenance agreements that include routine inspections, filter replacements, and full system performance checks.

Cleaner Filters, Lower Costs

Improving energy efficiency doesn’t always require a major upgrade. Sometimes, it’s as simple as keeping your filters clean. With rising electricity prices and sustainability goals becoming more important, proactive maintenance delivers real savings and reliability.

Contact Shelair today to arrange a preventative maintenance plan that keeps your HVAC system running efficiently and your power bills under control.

📞 Phone: 07 3204 9511
📧 Email: info@shelair.com.au

Stay Connected

Follow us on LinkedIn for more commercial air conditioning tips, insights, and energy-saving strategies.

Enjoyed this article?
Read more HVAC case studies and advice on our Shelair Insights Blog.

Compare real-world kWh rates, system sizes, and energy-saving strategies

1. Quick kWh-Cost Table (SE Queensland Tariff 11 – $0.27/kWh*)

*Tariff 11 QLD April 2025 — adjust for your retailer.
**Cooling kW = nominal system capacity; kWh consumption assumes average COP of 3.3 at 32 °C ambient.

2. How to Calculate Your Air Conditioning Running Costs

Formula:
Running cost ($) = (Cooling kW ÷ COP) × Electricity rate ($/kWh) × Operating hours

Example – 25 kW system:
25 kW ÷ 3.3 COP = 7.6 kWh × $0.27 = $2.05/hour

3. Seven Proven Ways to Cut Your HVAC Energy Bills

1. Raise set-point by 1 °C to save up to 10% on energy.

2. Change filters quarterly — dirty filters add 5–15% load.

3. Fit variable-speed drives (VSDs) to supply fans — average 20% reduction.

4. Enable economiser cycle for free cooling below 22 °C.

5. Use BTMS monitoring to detect compressor short-cycling early.

6. Night purge offices to remove heat before startup.

7. Replace R22 or fixed-speed systems over 15 years old — new inverter models can halve kWh use.

Related reading: Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist

4. Case Study – Brisbane Office Cuts $3,200 Annually

Problem: 25 kW rooftop units running continuously at low efficiency.
Solution: Shelair installed VSD controls and optimised airflow balance.
Result: 17% energy reduction = $3,200 saved per year. ROI ≈ 15 months.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest tariff for commercial HVAC?
Larger sites on Tariff 20 or demand-based tariffs can pay 10–15% less per kWh.

Does solar offset HVAC power costs?
Yes — most systems operate during daylight. A 30 kW solar array can offset 40% of annual HVAC consumption.

Should I leave AC on overnight?
Not usually. Overnight heat gain outweighs any stored cooling. Use night purge or temperature setback only.

6. Free Commercial Cooling Audit and kWh Calculator

Want to know your exact running costs and payback?
Book a free commercial cooling audit with Shelair — includes a 5-year workmanship guarantee on any approved upgrades.

Servicing Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast
Phone: 07 3204 9511
Email: info@shelair.com.au

Stay Connected

Follow us on LinkedIn for updates, HVAC tips, and client success stories.

Enjoyed this article?
Read more industry insights and case studies on our Shelair Insights Blog.

Introduction

Electricity costs are one of the largest ongoing expenses for commercial buildings in Queensland — and your air conditioning system is often the biggest energy user.

At Shelair, we work with Brisbane businesses every day to improve energy efficiency in commercial air conditioning through smarter system design, maintenance, and technology.

Here are five proven ways to reduce running costs, extend system life, and improve comfort.

1. Regular Preventive Maintenance

The simplest way to boost efficiency is through consistent, professional maintenance.

Dust, clogged filters, and refrigerant leaks all make systems work harder, increasing power use by up to 30%.
A quarterly service schedule ensures your system stays clean, calibrated, and efficient.

Key tasks include:

• Cleaning filters and coils

• Checking refrigerant pressures

• Inspecting electrical components

• Verifying thermostat and control accuracy

“quarterly service schedule” → Service & Repairs

2. Upgrade to Inverter or VRV/VRF Systems

If your system is over 10 years old, it’s likely consuming far more power than necessary.

Modern inverter-driven and VRV/VRF systems adjust output automatically based on cooling demand — saving up to 40% in energy.

They’re ideal for offices, healthcare, and retail environments where loads vary throughout the day.

“VRV/VRF systems” → Installation page.

3. Improve Airflow and Duct Efficiency

Leaky, uninsulated, or poorly balanced ducts waste enormous amounts of conditioned air — and energy.

Regular duct inspections and air-balancing checks ensure even airflow and reduce strain on the system.

You’ll see improved comfort and lower power use almost immediately.

4. Use Smart Controls and Zoning

Modern control systems allow you to cool only the areas in use and automatically adjust temperatures based on occupancy or time of day.

Zoning, occupancy sensors, and programmable thermostats can cut energy use by up to 25% while maintaining comfort.

Shelair installs and integrates smart controls across all major commercial air conditioning brands.

5. Plan for System Replacement at the Right Time

Every system has a finite lifespan. Holding on to inefficient units too long often costs more than replacing them.

If maintenance costs are rising and energy consumption is increasing, replacement is likely the smarter financial move.

Shelair can assess your current system’s performance and provide a cost-benefit analysis comparing repair vs replacement.

 “cost-benefit analysis” → Service & Repairs

Why Energy Efficiency Matters

• Lower running costs: Every kilowatt saved goes straight to your bottom line.

• Improved reliability: Efficient systems experience less wear and fewer breakdowns.

• Environmental compliance: Reduced carbon footprint and energy reporting compliance.

• Better comfort: Consistent temperatures improve productivity and tenant satisfaction.

How Shelair Helps Brisbane Businesses Save

With over 30 years of experience in commercial air conditioning across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast, Shelair delivers end-to-end HVAC solutions designed for performance and efficiency.

We offer:

• Energy-efficient system design and upgrades

• Preventive maintenance programs

• 24/7 repairs and diagnostics

• Smart control and zoning installations

Call Today!

Reduce your energy costs and improve comfort with Shelair’s energy-efficient commercial air conditioning services.

📞 Call 07 3204 9511 or visit shelair.com.au to arrange a system assessment and efficiency review.

Introduction

Choosing the right commercial air conditioning system isn’t as simple as picking a brand and size. The wrong choice can lead to high energy bills, poor comfort, and premature equipment failure.

At Shelair, we’ve designed and installed commercial HVAC systems across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast for more than 30 years. Here’s what every business should consider before investing in a new system.

1. Understand Your Building and Usage Requirements

Every commercial space is different. Offices, retail stores, aged care facilities, and warehouses all have unique cooling and ventilation needs.

Key factors include:

• Building size and layout

• Number of occupants

• Operating hours

• Heat-generating equipment (e.g. kitchens, computers, machinery)

A professional load calculation ensures your system is sized for efficiency — not just capacity.

2. Choose the Right Type of System

There are several types of commercial air conditioning systems available in Brisbane, each with different advantages:

Ducted Systems

Ideal for large, open spaces or multi-room environments. Provide even airflow and quiet operation.

VRV / VRF Systems

Variable refrigerant systems offer precise temperature control and are highly energy-efficient — ideal for offices or mixed-use buildings.

Split or Cassette Systems

Good for smaller tenancies or specific zones where full-ducted systems aren’t practical.

Packaged Rooftop Units

Compact, efficient systems for larger facilities or industrial spaces.

Shelair designs and installs all major system types to match each client’s operational needs and budget.

3. Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

Energy efficiency isn’t just an environmental goal — it’s a major cost factor.

Look for systems with:

• High star ratings or inverter technology

• Zoning and smart controls

• Demand-based ventilation

Modern commercial systems can reduce energy consumption by up to 30% compared to older models.

“energy-efficient commercial systems” → Service & Repairs page

4. Maintenance Requirements

Some systems are easier and cheaper to maintain than others.

Ask about:

• Filter access and cleaning frequency

• Spare part availability

• Manufacturer warranties

A cheaper upfront system can become more expensive long-term if maintenance is difficult or frequent.

5. Installation Quality Matters Most

Even the best system will fail to perform if installed poorly. Incorrect piping, poor duct sealing, or undersized electrical components can all lead to inefficiency and breakdowns.

That’s why choosing an experienced, licensed installer is critical.
At Shelair, our project managers oversee every installation stage to ensure compliance and quality assurance from start to finish.

6. Climate and Environmental Factors

Queensland’s climate — hot, humid, and often coastal — requires durable, corrosion-resistant systems.

Outdoor units near the coast benefit from:

• Protective coil coatings

• Stainless-steel fittings

• Regular rinsing of salt deposits

Selecting a system rated for coastal environments extends lifespan and reliability.

“commercial systems rated for coastal environments” → About Us page.

7. The Importance of After-Sales Support

A good installation partner doesn’t disappear after handover.

Shelair offers ongoing maintenance programs, 24/7 emergency repair services, and performance monitoring — ensuring your investment continues to deliver value for years.

Why Choose Shelair for Commercial Air Conditioning in Brisbane

With over 20 years of experience across SE Queensland, Shelair delivers:

• Expert design and load analysis

• Installation of all major commercial systems

• Preventative maintenance programs

• 24/7 support and responsive repairs

Whether you’re upgrading, expanding, or fitting out a new building, we’ll tailor a system that fits your needs, budget, and compliance requirements.

Call Today!

Need advice on the best commercial air conditioning system in Brisbane for your business?
Contact Shelair today for a free consultation and quote.

📞 Call 07 3204 9511
🌐 Visit shelair.com.au to learn more.

Introduction

Your commercial air conditioning system is one of the hardest-working assets in your business — but it’s also one of the most neglected.
Many Brisbane business owners only think about maintenance when something breaks down. Unfortunately, that approach often leads to higher costs, downtime, and shorter system life.

So, how often should a commercial air conditioner be serviced? Let’s look at what Shelair recommends based on Queensland’s climate, industry standards, and our 30+ years of experience.

1. The Recommended Service Frequency

For most commercial air conditioning systems in Brisbane, we recommend a minimum of quarterly servicing — once every three months.

This frequency ensures filters, coils, and drains are clean, refrigerant levels are correct, and components are checked for wear before they fail.

However, the ideal schedule depends on your environment and usage.

“commercial air conditioning systems in Brisbane” → Service & Repairs

2. Why Regular Servicing Matters

Efficiency and Energy Savings

A neglected system can lose up to 20% efficiency, increasing your energy bills and strain on components.
Routine servicing ensures your system runs at its designed performance level.

Reliability and Fewer Breakdowns

Regular checks catch worn belts, leaks, or sensor faults before they cause unexpected downtime.

Air Quality and Compliance

Clean filters and coils maintain good indoor air quality — essential in workplaces, schools, and aged care environments.

System Longevity

Preventive servicing can double the lifespan of an HVAC system. A well-maintained commercial unit can run 15–20 years; poorly maintained ones may fail after 8–10.

“Preventive servicing” → Maintenance page.

3. What’s Included in a Commercial Air Conditioning Service

A professional Shelair service includes:

• Filter inspection and replacement

• Coil cleaning and disinfection

• Refrigerant pressure check

• Electrical and sensor testing

• Drain cleaning and leak detection

• Airflow and duct checks

• Thermostat calibration

Our licensed Brisbane HVAC technicians document all findings and provide recommendations for repairs or efficiency improvements.

4. Climate Factors in Brisbane and SE Queensland

Queensland’s hot, humid summers place heavy load on air conditioning systems. Salt exposure near coastal areas — especially the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast — accelerates corrosion and wear.

That’s why regular air conditioning servicing in Brisbane isn’t just good practice — it’s essential.

“air conditioning servicing in Brisbane” → About Us

5. The Cost of Skipping Maintenance

Skipping maintenance might save a little short-term, but it leads to:

• Higher power bills

• Shorter equipment life

• More breakdowns

• Lost productivity and revenue

Regular servicing is far cheaper than emergency callouts and major repairs.

Shelair technician servicing an indoor commercial air conditioning unit to restore performance and improve efficiency for a Brisbane client.

6. Setting Up a Maintenance Schedule with Shelair

Shelair offers tailored HVAC maintenance programs to suit your business and equipment type.
We service all major brands and ensure full compliance with Australian Standards and safety regulations.

Whether you’re in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, or the Sunshine Coast — we’ll keep your systems efficient, reliable, and compliant.

Call Today!

Don’t wait for your system to fail. Schedule your commercial air conditioning service in Brisbane today with Shelair’s licensed technicians.

📞 Call 07 3204 9511 or request a quote via our Contact Us page.

Introduction

Many businesses put off HVAC repairs, hoping minor issues will fix themselves — but they rarely do.
Delaying commercial air conditioning repairs can lead to higher energy bills, reduced comfort, system failure, and even safety risks.

At Shelair, we help Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast businesses stay ahead of costly breakdowns with professional repair and maintenance services that protect both comfort and cash flow.

1. Increased Energy Consumption

When filters clog, refrigerant leaks, or parts wear down, your air conditioning system has to work harder to produce the same cooling output.

That inefficiency drives energy costs up — often by 10–30%.
For large sites running multiple units, that’s thousands of dollars wasted each year.

Solution: Regular servicing keeps systems running at optimal efficiency and reduces operating costs.

“Regular servicing” → Service & Repairs

2. Reduced Equipment Lifespan

Minor faults left unchecked — such as low refrigerant, loose wiring, or worn fan belts — gradually damage compressors and coils.

Over time, this shortens system life and accelerates capital replacement costs.
A $500 repair today could prevent a $15,000 replacement later.

Solution: Scheduled maintenance identifies and fixes small issues before they cause major damage.

“Scheduled maintenance” → Maintenance page.

3. Poor Air Quality and Health Risks

Neglected systems can harbour mould, bacteria, and dust that circulate through the air, creating an unhealthy workplace and potential compliance issues.

For hospitals, aged care, and offices, poor indoor air quality can also lead to staff illness and absenteeism.

Solution: Regular coil cleaning and filter replacement maintain air hygiene and system performance.

4. Unexpected Downtime and Business Disruption

Unplanned breakdowns often occur during peak summer, when HVAC systems are under maximum load — and when repair wait times are longest.

For retailers, factories, and commercial offices, downtime means lost productivity, unhappy staff, and dissatisfied clients.

Solution: Preventive repairs and monitoring reduce the risk of downtime and keep operations smooth year-round.

“Preventive repairs” → Service & Repairs

5. Non-Compliance and Safety Issues

Commercial systems must be maintained in accordance with Australian Standards and environmental regulations.
Refrigerant leaks or electrical faults can expose a business to fines, legal risks, or insurance complications.

Solution: Shelair’s licensed technicians ensure every service meets compliance standards, providing peace of mind and documentation for your records.

6. The False Economy of Delaying Repairs

It’s common for businesses to delay small repairs to “save money.” In reality, this strategy almost always costs more long-term.

Example:

• Ignoring a $300 refrigerant leak can lead to a $3,000 compressor replacement.

• Deferring a $200 electrical repair can cause a system outage worth thousands in lost productivity.

Solution: Timely, proactive repairs are a business investment — not an expense.

Why Shelair Is Brisbane’s Trusted HVAC Partner

For over 30 years, Shelair has delivered reliable, cost-effective commercial air conditioning repairs Brisbane businesses trust.

We specialise in:

• Fast, on-site fault diagnosis

• Repairs for all major HVAC brands

• 24/7 emergency response

• Preventative maintenance programs

“Preventative maintenance programs” → Maintenance page.

Our focus is simple: minimise downtime, extend system life, and keep your business comfortable.

Call Today!

Don’t wait for a breakdown to cost your business.
Contact Shelair today for expert commercial air conditioning repairs and ongoing maintenance.

📞 Call 07 3204 9511 or visit our Contact Us page to request a technician.

Introduction

Queensland’s hot, humid weather is tough on commercial HVAC systems. High temperatures, salt-laden coastal air, and heavy daily usage all contribute to premature wear and costly breakdowns.

At Shelair, we’ve spent over 20 years servicing and repairing commercial air conditioning Brisbane businesses rely on — and we’ve seen every problem imaginable. Here are the most common issues and how to avoid them.

1. Blocked Filters and Restricted Airflow

One of the simplest but most damaging issues is dirty or clogged filters. Restricted airflow forces the system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and reducing cooling capacity.

Prevention: Schedule routine filter cleaning and replacement every 1–3 months, especially in dusty or high-use environments.

“routine filter cleaning” → Service & Repairs

2. Refrigerant Leaks and Low Gas Pressure

Brisbane’s high ambient temperatures can accelerate small refrigerant leaks, which lead to poor cooling, higher running costs, and potential compressor damage.

Prevention: Regular pressure checks and leak detection by licensed technicians ensure refrigerant levels stay within specifications and keep systems compliant with environmental regulations.

“licensed technicians” → About Us page.

3. Electrical and Sensor Failures

Electrical storms and high humidity often cause sensor or wiring issues in HVAC systems. These failures can make units short-cycle, run inefficiently, or stop completely.

Prevention: Annual inspection of control boards, wiring, and sensors catches faults early before they lead to system failure.

4. Corrosion from Coastal Air

Buildings near the coast — from the Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast — face extra wear from salt exposure. This corrodes coils, brackets, and outdoor components, shortening system lifespan.

Prevention: Apply protective coatings on outdoor units and rinse coils periodically to remove salt deposits.

5. Blocked Drain Lines and Mould Growth

Humidity encourages condensation and mould inside drain pans and ducting. This leads to odours, water leaks, and air-quality complaints.

Prevention: Regular drain cleaning, coil disinfection, and air-quality checks keep systems hygienic and efficient.

“drain cleaning” → Maintenance page.

6. Oversized or Undersized Systems

Incorrect system sizing is a common problem in commercial properties. Oversized units short-cycle and waste energy; undersized ones can’t maintain comfort on hot days.

Prevention: Proper load calculation during design and installation ensures optimal capacity and efficiency.

“design and installation” → Installation page.

7. Lack of Preventive Maintenance

Many HVAC issues stem from neglect. Running systems until they fail leads to higher repair costs and downtime — something no Brisbane business can afford.

Prevention: A scheduled preventative maintenance plan keeps everything running smoothly, compliant, and efficient year-round.

 “preventative maintenance plan” → Service & Repairs

8. Poor Air Balancing and Duct Design

Uneven cooling or hot spots often come from poor ductwork layout or balancing. This not only affects comfort but forces parts of the system to overwork.

Prevention: Professional air-balancing tests during commissioning or service visits correct airflow issues before they waste energy.

Why Shelair Is the Right Choice for Queensland Businesses

Shelair provides commercial HVAC solutions purpose-built for Queensland’s conditions. Our Brisbane-based technicians understand the local climate and service all major brands — from ducted to VRV/VRF systems.

With proactive maintenance and responsive repairs, we help reduce energy costs, extend system life, and keep your business comfortable all year.

Call Today

Don’t let Queensland’s climate ruin your air conditioning system.
Contact Shelair today for professional maintenance and repair of your commercial air conditioning in Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.

📞 Call 07 3204 9511 or visit our Service & Repairs page to book a technician.

Introduction

Energy costs are one of the biggest ongoing expenses for commercial buildings — and your air conditioning system is usually the main culprit. Improving energy efficiency in your HVAC setup doesn’t just cut electricity bills; it also improves comfort, reduces breakdowns, and extends the life of your system.

At Shelair, we help clients design, install, and maintain energy efficient commercial air conditioning systems across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.

1. Regular Maintenance Keeps Efficiency High

A well-maintained HVAC system always performs better than a neglected one. Dust buildup, dirty filters, and blocked drains all make your system work harder — consuming more power for less output.

Regular preventative maintenance from Shelair ensures:

• Filters and coils are kept clean.

• Airflow is optimised.

• Sensors and thermostats are calibrated.

Small issues are caught early, keeping your system efficient and compliant with Queensland energy standards.

2. Upgrade to Modern Inverter or VRV Systems

If your building still relies on older fixed-speed air conditioners, upgrading to an inverter-driven or VRV/VRF system can deliver immediate savings.

These modern systems automatically adjust output to match demand, reducing power draw by up to 30%. For large commercial sites — such as offices, retail centres, and healthcare facilities — this can save thousands every year.

See more on “VRV/VRF systems” on our Installation page.

3. Use Smart Controls and Scheduling

Many commercial HVAC systems waste energy simply because they run when no one’s around. Smart controllers and building management systems (BMS) allow you to:

• Set schedules to match occupancy.

• Monitor temperatures remotely.

• Receive alerts when systems operate inefficiently.

Shelair can integrate new control systems into your existing HVAC network to improve automation and oversight.

4. Zone Your Building for Smarter Cooling

Not every part of your building needs cooling at the same intensity. By dividing your property into zones and managing each independently, you can cut wasted energy and create more consistent comfort.

Zoning works particularly well for:

• Multi-floor buildings

• Mixed-use commercial spaces

• Areas with varying occupancy throughout the day

5. Seal and Insulate Ductwork

Air leaks in ducting are one of the most common causes of wasted energy in large HVAC systems. Even small leaks can cause losses of up to 20% in cooling efficiency.

Shelair technicians inspect and seal ducts as part of our energy optimisation service, improving airflow and system performance immediately.

6. Monitor Performance and Set Efficiency Goals

Energy efficiency isn’t a one-time upgrade — it’s an ongoing process.
We recommend that commercial clients:

• Track energy use monthly.

• Record changes after each maintenance visit.

• Set measurable efficiency targets each quarter.

Shelair provides maintenance reports with performance data so you can see tangible savings over time.

7. Reinvest Savings into Preventive Maintenance

When your system operates efficiently, reinvest part of those savings into a preventive maintenance plan. Regular care compounds your efficiency gains — creating a cycle of lower costs and higher reliability.

Why Work with Shelair

For over 30 years, Shelair has supported commercial clients across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast with energy-efficient air conditioning design, installation, and maintenance.

Our combination of technical expertise and responsive service ensures your systems operate at peak efficiency year-round.

Call Today

Want to improve the efficiency of your commercial air conditioning system?
Contact Shelair for an energy performance assessment or maintenance plan that reduces your operating costs and carbon footprint.

📞 Call 07 3204 9511 or visit our Service & Repairs page to get started.