Commercial HVAC
7 Signs Your Rooftop HVAC Unit Needs Repair
Published 2026-09-05 · RAM Commercial Building Services
Warning signs that a commercial rooftop unit needs service before it fails.
Watch for these signs
- Tenants reporting hot or cold spots
- Short cycling — turning on and off often
- Unusual noises: squealing, grinding, banging
- Water around the unit or ceiling stains below
- Rising electric bills with no change in use
- Ice on refrigerant lines
- Burning or musty smells from vents
What to do
Call for a diagnosis early. Small issues like a worn belt or clogged condensate drain are inexpensive; ignoring them can lead to compressor failure.
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FAQ
Repair or replace an old RTU?
Age, repair history, refrigerant type and efficiency all matter. We'll give you a plain-language recommendation with both options.