Commercial RTU Replacement Guide for Building Owners
- Feb 7
- 3 min read
Your building’s rooftop unit is likely its most expensive mechanical equipment. If your commercial building is equipped with an RTU, you should know when it comes time for replacement, your RTU isn’t just a mechanical decision. It can impact your organization financially, operationally, and from a risk management perspective.
Burban Air Systems Ltd. works with property managers, facilities directors, and building owners across the GTA to plan and execute commercial RTU replacements with minimal disruption and maximum ROI.
When To Replace Your Commercial RTU
Commercial rooftop units should last between 15–25 years on average, depending on maintenance practices and how hard the unit has been running. There are a few signs it’s time to start thinking about replacement:
Increasing repair costs
Noticeably less cooling or heating capacity
Replacement parts are no longer available or use obsolete technology
System is inefficient compared to new energy standards
Occupants are uncomfortable
However, if your RTU is still going strong, it’s probably best to wait. Replacing an RTU before it completely fails tends to be much more cost-effective than experiencing an emergency breakdown.
Commercial RTU Replacement Considerations
Simply removing your old RTU and installing a new one is NOT the proper way to replace your rooftop unit. Here are some important factors to consider when replacing your RTU:
Load requirements – Proper load calculations should be done before sizing a new unit. Simply selecting a unit that’s the same size as your old one is not recommended.
New energy codes – Installation of a new RTU is the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model that can save on operating costs.
Equipment and roof curb – Size, layout, and age of the roof may factor into which kind of unit you can install and whether a new curb will be required.
Electrical, controls, and gas upgrades – Older buildings may require additional work to ensure your new unit is properly connected and controlled.
Business Interruption – Tenant comfort should be considered during installation to prevent business disruption.
If these steps are overlooked during your RTU replacement, you may be stuck with an oversized unit that short cycles, wastes energy, and doesn’t last as long as it should.
Advantages of Replacing Your Commercial RTU
You may be thinking a new RTU is just going to increase your building’s mechanical equipment costs. But if your current system is nearing retirement age, replacement can provide many benefits:
Energy efficiency
Today’s commercial RTUs are much more efficient than their older counterparts. Look for units with high-efficiency compressors, ECM motors, and smart controllers.
Comfort
Newer units provide improved staging, modulation, and zoning capabilities for improved comfort and fewer occupant complaints.
Reduce Risk
Investing in new equipment can reduce the chance of unforeseen breakdowns and allow you to better plan for preventative maintenance.
Asset Value
Keeping your building’s mechanical equipment up-to-date ensures your building stays up to code and can help with resale value.
Steps for Commercial RTU Replacement
Timing is everything when it comes to RTU replacement. Avoid doing the job during peak seasons and you’ll save your tenants (and yourself) a lot of headaches. Our preferred method includes:
Assessing the existing unit, roof, and services
Confirming proper load sizing
Reviewing energy-efficient equipment options
Coordinating logistics with crane scheduling
Professional installation, testing, and commissioning.
We’ve even worked with clients to tie replacement into capital planning cycles to smooth out large expenses.
Plan Now and Replace Before Failure
Last minute RTU replacements are more expensive for a variety of reasons. By planning your replacement, you allow yourself:
More equipment options
More competitive pricing
Less business disruption to your tenants
And overall savings by not having to pay for emergency repairs.
Call the Commercial HVAC Experts Today
Commercial RTU replacement isn’t a DIY project. Your RTU doesn’t simply drop down every night, it’s heavy, uses gas and electricity, and should be installed by a professional.
Burban Air Systems Ltd. provides commercial HVAC services across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. With over 45 years of experience installing, servicing, and repairing commercial HVAC equipment, we can help you plan and implement a commercial RTU replacement that will serve you for years to come.
Contact us to discuss your commercial RTU replacement or request a free estimate today.