Fan Coil Units

Have you ever wondered how your building is cooled in the summer and heated throughout the winter? The answer is more than likely using a fan coil unit (FCU). Fan coil units can be found in over 60% of residential high-rise buildings throughout Ontario.

What is a Fan Coil Unit?

Vertical fan coil units are a type of HVAC system found in high-rise residential buildings. The system consists of a fan and a coil (containing hot or cold water) to heat, cool, and ventilate the suite. The building’s make up air unit draws in fresh air from outside, pressurizing the corridors which pushes air into suites. Fan coil units draw in air from the suite, condition it, and then supply it back into the suite. The thermostat found in your suite controls all these features. Vertical fan coil units began being installed in condominiums specifically in the 1970’s and still make up a significant portion of the high-rise residential HVAC industry today.

Does my suite have a fan coil unit?

Fan coil units make up roughly 60% of the HVAC systems found in high-rise residential buildings located in Toronto and the GTA. Your vertical fan coil unit can be found behind the access panel in the wall within your suite.

Aging Fan Coil Units

Your fan coil unit is one of the only pieces of equipment in your building and suite that is in constant operation. This means like other household appliances the lifespan of this piece of equipment will eventually reach its limit. The average lifespan of a vertical fan coil unit is 20 years. As the components of your fan coil unit near and surpass 20 years and continue to work round the clock they will naturally age, degrade, and eventually fail. Aging and or problematic fan coil units should be regularly assessed by a certified HVAC professional to prevent potential issues such as:

Leaks

Leaks can occur from condensed water either pooling or dripping from a rusted or degrading drain pan.

Rust

Aging stainless steel of the cabinet or your actual fan coil can begin to rust from condensed water build up.

Motor Failure

A fan coil unit motor that's been well maintained has an average lifespan of 20 years. Excess or loud noises, rattling, and inconsistent temperatures are all signs your fan coil motor is overworking, experiencing issues, and probably reaching the end of its lifespan.

Insulation degradation

Aging fan coil units were originally insulated with fibreglass insullation which can begin to degrade with age and temperature changes. Excessive moisture or dehydration can cause particulate to break of and blow through your exit grilles into the air in your suite.

Excessive noise

Excessive noise can occur when your motor is overworking due to age, failure, or clogged filters.

Temperature discrepancies

Temperature discrepancy is one of the first signs of an aging fan coil unit. This can occur because of motor or thermostat issues or poor maintenance.

Mould

Mould growth can occur in your fan coil unit because of its dark, damp environment. Combined with tightly woven fibreglass insulation, moisture, and poor maintenance your fan coil unit can create the perfect home for mould if not properly maintained.

Are your fan coil units experiencing any of these issues?

If so, please contact Certified Clean Air Corp to provide you with a free fan coil unit assessment.