RTU & Commercial HVAC Equipment Replacement
When commercial HVAC equipment reaches end of useful life — or when repair costs make continued operation impractical — a coordinated equipment replacement is the most cost-effective path forward. Vences Contracting Group manages the complete replacement process: equipment evaluation, selection, procurement, removal, installation, and commissioning.
We work with facility managers, building owners, and property managers to plan replacements that minimize operational downtime and deliver equipment properly sized and configured for current building loads.
Our Replacement Process
Equipment Assessment
Before recommending replacement, we conduct an equipment assessment to confirm that replacement is the appropriate action versus repair. We evaluate equipment age, condition, repair history, refrigerant type, and efficiency relative to current equipment options.
Equipment Selection & Procurement
We identify replacement equipment options — including like-for-like replacements and efficiency upgrades — and manage procurement to reduce lead time impact on the replacement schedule. We work with leading commercial equipment manufacturers.
Removal & Disposal
Safe removal of existing equipment, including refrigerant recovery per EPA 608 regulations, equipment disconnection, and responsible disposal or recycling.
Installation
Replacement equipment installation coordinated with the building's operational schedule to minimize downtime. Structural, electrical, and controls coordination managed as part of the scope.
Startup & Commissioning
Full system startup, functional testing, and commissioning documentation. We verify that the replacement unit is performing to manufacturer specifications before handoff.
Warranty Registration
We manage equipment warranty registration with the manufacturer and provide documentation of installation and startup for warranty records.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my RTU should be repaired or replaced?
Key factors include equipment age (RTUs typically have a 15–20 year service life), repair history and frequency, refrigerant type (R-22 equipment is increasingly costly to maintain), and current energy efficiency relative to available replacements. We provide an assessment and recommendation — not a sales pitch.
Can you replace an RTU without shutting down the building?
In most cases, yes. We plan replacements to minimize operational impact, typically scheduling crane lifts and equipment changeouts during low-occupancy periods or after hours. Temporary cooling provisions can be arranged for critical environments.
Do you handle the crane and rigging for rooftop unit replacement?
Yes. We coordinate all crane and rigging requirements for rooftop equipment replacement as part of our scope, including permits if required by the local jurisdiction.
What equipment brands do you supply for replacement?
We work with leading commercial equipment manufacturers including Carrier, Trane, Lennox, York, Daikin, and others. Equipment selection is based on project requirements, budget, and owner preference.
How long does an RTU replacement typically take?
A standard single-unit rooftop replacement can typically be completed in one day, including removal, installation, startup, and commissioning. Multi-unit projects are phased to minimize operational disruption.