As someone who regularly handles hundreds of commercial site visits annually, I’ve encountered countless HVAC units mounted high above ground level—typically between 15 to 30 feet. These installations are particularly prevalent in retail environments, such as the one illustrated here, but they can also pop up in various industrial settings.

An HVAC unit we accessed during a recent service call at a large U.S. retailer.

Just last week, I found myself at a middle school in Mount Vernon, tasked with measuring both a hot water coil and a DX evaporator coil within a Carrier 7.5-ton ceiling unit positioned 30 feet off the ground. Surrounded by the school’s structural framework, accessing this unit wasn’t exactly straightforward.

Remembering my own days in middle school... okay, let’s focus on coils now!

The contractor initially planned to lower the entire unit just to gather the necessary dimensions for the coils. This approach would not only have taken considerable time but also incurred significant costs. Instead, I decided to climb up there and assess the situation firsthand. Utilizing my expertise and a bit of ingenuity, I managed to take accurate measurements without needing to drop the unit, saving both time and money for everyone involved.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Always think twice before deciding to dismantle something complex. Sometimes, a closer inspection can save the day—and your wallet. And if you ever find yourself facing similar challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!