Equipment Expertise
What is an air handling unit?
An air handling unit (AHU) filters, moves and conditions air for a building or a group of zones. It may contain heating coils, cooling coils, outdoor-air dampers and other sections, with heating or cooling supplied by connected plant or refrigeration equipment.
Where you’ll find this equipment
- Office buildings
- Retail and commercial facilities
- Medical and institutional spaces
- Larger buildings with central air distribution
System Operation
How It Works
The AHU draws in return air, outdoor air or a controlled mixture of both. Air passes through filters and conditioning sections before a supply fan sends it through ductwork. Valves, dampers and fan controls respond to building demand and ventilation requirements.
Equipment Overview
Main Components
Fans and drives
Provide the airflow and pressure required by the distribution system.
Filters
Protect coils and help manage airborne particles.
Heating and cooling coils
Condition supply air using the available heating or cooling source.
Dampers and sensors
Regulate outdoor air, temperature and operating sequences.
Common Problems We Find
- Loaded filters and restricted airflow
- Dirty coils or blocked condensate drains
- Worn belts, bearings or fan components
- Stuck dampers or failed actuators
- Incorrect sensor readings
- Valve faults or inadequate heating and cooling supply
Why Maintenance Matters
AHU maintenance links equipment condition to building performance. Filter schedules, coil and drain care, drive inspections and control checks help maintain airflow and identify deficiencies affecting multiple spaces.
- More consistent building operation
- Earlier identification of wear and deficiencies
- Clearer repair and replacement priorities
The RK Approach
Service that considers the whole building
RK Climate Control supports commercial equipment troubleshooting, preventative maintenance and replacement planning throughout the Lower Mainland. We focus on practical diagnostics, clear documentation and the way each piece of equipment works with the rest of the building.
Include the unit location, the areas served and whether the issue affects airflow, supply-air temperature or building schedules.
Keep Your Equipment Running Reliably
Request service or discuss a maintenance plan for your building.