Rooftop Units in Richfield, WI

Rooftop Units in Richfield, WI

Commercial rooftop unit (RTU) systems are the backbone of climate control for many Richfield, WI businesses. With hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, properly installed and maintained rooftop units protect occupant comfort, indoor air quality, and energy costs.

Why rooftop units matter for Richfield commercial buildings

Rooftop units are exposed to Wisconsin weather extremes: heavy snow, ice, freeze-thaw cycles, and summer humidity. Those conditions accelerate corrosion, stress curb seals, and challenge control logic if systems are not set up for seasonal transitions. Well-specified RTUs reduce energy use during shoulder seasons with economizers, limit downtime during cold snaps, and minimize rooftop integrity problems that can cause leaks or structural issues.

Common RTU issues in Richfield, WI

• Reduced cooling or heating capacity due to dirty coils, low refrigerant, or failing compressors.  
• Economizer failures that allow unconditioned outdoor air in or lock out when free cooling is available.  
• Electrical and control problems including failed starters, contactors, or outdated control boards that prevent efficient sequencing.  
• Drain and condensate freeze or clogging in winter and shoulder seasons leading to overflow and roof leaks.  
• Corrosion and roof-penetration leaks from failed curb flashing or flange seals after repeated freeze-thaw cycles.  
• Fan or belt failures from wear or improper tension, causing airflow loss and higher operating costs.

Types of rooftop unit services we perform

• RTU installation and replacement: full removal and crane set, curb and structural assessments, curb adapters and weatherproof flashing.  
• Preventative maintenance: seasonal tune-ups before cooling and heating seasons, filter programs, coil cleaning, motor lubrication, belt inspection, and refrigerant checks.  
• Repairs and emergency service: compressor repair or replacement, fan motors, control board and sensor replacements, economizer actuator repairs, and leak detection and recovery.  
• Control and economizer upgrades: add DDC/BAS compatibility, changeover logic, enthalpy sensors, and demand-controlled ventilation.  
• Safety and rooftop access improvements: install walkways, anchor points, and ensure compliant ladder hatches and fall protection.  
• Long-term service plans: scheduled inspections, predictive replacement forecasting, and parts inventory management.

How we diagnose RTU problems

Diagnostic work uses a step-by-step approach that prioritizes occupant comfort and building protection. Typical steps include:

1. Visual roof and curb inspection to check seals, flashing, and unit mounting.  
2. Electrical testing: voltage, amperage, starters, and safe sequencing checks.  
3. Refrigeration system checks: pressure readings, superheat/subcooling calculations, and leak detection.  
4. Airflow and distribution testing: static pressure, supply and return airflow, and filter condition.  
5. Control and sensor verification: economizer damper operation, thermostat calibration, and BAS interfaces.  
6. Documenting findings and outlining recommended repairs or upgrades with expected lifecycle impacts.

Installation and replacement considerations for Richfield buildings

Proper RTU installation is more than set and connect. Key considerations include:

• Structural and roof load assessment to confirm the roof and curb support unit weight and wind uplift.  
• Curb compatibility and weatherproofing: custom adapters and secure bolting to prevent water intrusion during snowmelt.  
• Crane and logistics planning for safe rooftop placement, including temporary roof protection during installation.  
• Right-sizing to match building loads and zoning to avoid short cycling or oversizing that increases cost and reduces comfort.  
• Winterization options such as compressor crankcase heaters, heated drain pans, and cold-weather control sequences to avoid freeze damage.

Control and economizer upgrades that pay back in Richfield

Economizers and modern controls can significantly reduce energy consumption in shoulder seasons when outside air can be used for cooling. Upgrade options:

• Enthalpy or differential enthalpy sensors to prevent bringing in humid or cold air when not economical.  
• Variable frequency drives (VFDs) on supply fans to reduce motor energy and improve airflow control.  
• BAS/BMS integration and remote monitoring for trend analysis, fault detection, and scheduling.  
• Demand-controlled ventilation to reduce makeup air during low occupancy while maintaining IAQ.

Sizing and selection for commercial rooftop units

Proper unit selection is critical. Sizing is based on commercial load calculations aligned with ASHRAE guidelines and local building use patterns. Consider:

• Peak cooling and heating load, plus diversity factors for multi-zone buildings.  
• Ventilation requirements and indoor air quality targets.  
• Roof geometry, curb dimensions, and future access for service.  
• Efficiency ratings and refrigerant choice based on current regulatory standards and long-term operating cost.
  A correctly sized RTU improves comfort, reduces first cost and ongoing energy spend, and extends equipment life.

Rooftop access and safety

Rooftop work must prioritize worker safety and roof integrity. Best practices:

• Install or verify OSHA-compliant access points, ladder cages or hatches, and permanent anchor points for fall protection.  
• Provide clear walkways and equipment platforms to prevent rooftop membrane damage.  
• Use temporary roof protection during replacement to avoid punctures from cranes or foot traffic.  
• Verify local code requirements and permit needs for large equipment replacements or roof penetrations.

Long-term service plans and lifecycle management

A proactive service plan reduces emergency repairs and extends RTU life. A robust plan includes:

• Seasonal inspections timed to Richfield’s climate cycles.  
• Scheduled filter and coil maintenance, and routine electrical tightening and lubrication.  
• Predictive maintenance through trend monitoring for early fault detection.  
• Planned replacement forecasting based on runtime, repair history, and efficiency loss.  
• Documentation of service history to support warranty claims and capital planning.

Benefits of timely RTU service in Richfield

Timely installation, maintenance, and upgrades on rooftop units lead to:

• Lower energy bills through efficient operation and economizer use.  
• Fewer emergency failures during extreme weather events.  
• Improved occupant comfort and healthier indoor air quality.  
• Extended equipment life and predictable capital replacement cycles.  
• Reduced risk of roof damage or leaks from poor curb sealing or neglected drains.

Rooftop units in Richfield, WI require attention to local weather impacts, roof conditions, and control strategies to deliver consistent performance. Proper sizing, safe installation, seasonal maintenance, and targeted control upgrades protect your building and optimize long-term operating cost.