Rooftop Unit Installation in Houston – Minimize Downtime with Pre-Fabricated Solutions

Titan HVAC Houston delivers commercial RTU installation with engineered precision, ensuring your facility maintains operational continuity through factory-tested equipment, coordinated crane logistics, and off-hours scheduling tailored to Houston's industrial corridors.

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Why Houston's Climate Accelerates Rooftop Package Unit Failure

Your rooftop unit battles conditions most commercial HVAC systems never see. Houston's average annual humidity exceeds 75 percent, creating condensate loads that overwhelm undersized drain pans and corrode evaporator coils. Add temperatures that hit 95 degrees for weeks straight, and compressors run 40 percent longer than units in dry climates. The result is predictable: premature refrigerant leaks, failed capacitors, and complete system lockouts during peak cooling demand.

Industrial facilities near the Ship Channel face additional challenges. Salt-laden air from Galveston Bay accelerates corrosion on condenser fins and cabinet panels. Warehouses in the East End and Fifth Ward deal with roof membrane failures from thermal cycling, which compromises RTU curb adapters and creates water intrusion paths. When a 15-ton rooftop package unit fails in a cold storage facility or distribution center, you measure losses in hours, not days.

Commercial rooftop HVAC installation is not a patch job. You need load calculations that account for internal heat gain from machinery, proper refrigerant line sizing for Houston's ambient conditions, and ductwork that compensates for static pressure drops in large open spaces. A commercial RTU install done correctly prevents the cascade failures that shut down production lines and violate temperature-controlled storage contracts. Houston's building stock, much of it built during the 1980s construction boom, often has outdated roof structural ratings that cannot support modern high-efficiency units without reinforcement. That oversight alone can void your liability coverage.

Why Houston's Climate Accelerates Rooftop Package Unit Failure
Engineered RTU Installation That Protects Your Operations

Engineered RTU Installation That Protects Your Operations

Titan HVAC Houston approaches commercial rooftop HVAC installation as a mechanical engineering problem, not a generic swap. We begin with structural load analysis, verifying that your roof deck can support the combined weight of the new RTU, curb adapter, and technician live load during maintenance. Many flat roofs in Houston's commercial districts use lightweight insulating concrete fill over metal decking. That assembly requires load distribution calculations before you set a 2,000-pound unit on top.

We coordinate crane access and street closures with the City of Houston's Right-of-Way Management Division. For facilities in the Galleria or Medical Center, that means scheduling lifts during off-peak hours to avoid traffic disruptions. The crane sets the unit onto a pre-fabricated curb adapter that we custom-weld to match your existing ductwork plenum. This eliminates the field fabrication errors that cause air leaks and energy losses.

Refrigerant line sets get nitrogen-purged and vacuum-tested to 500 microns before charging. We use digital manifolds to verify subcooling and superheat against manufacturer specs, not generic rules of thumb. Condensate drains route to roof scuppers with P-traps sized for Houston's high dew points. Electrical disconnects mount within sight of the unit per NEC Article 440, with conductors sized for voltage drop over the run from your main service panel.

Your existing Building Automation System integrates with the new RTU through BACnet or Modbus protocols. We program staging sequences that prevent short-cycling and map alarm points to your facility management software. The goal is transparent operation. Your maintenance staff gets full system documentation, including refrigerant circuit diagrams and control logic flowcharts.

What Happens During Your Commercial RTU Install

Rooftop Unit Installation in Houston – Minimize Downtime with Pre-Fabricated Solutions
01

Facility Assessment and Scheduling

We conduct a site survey to evaluate roof access, crane clearance, and electrical service capacity. You receive a detailed scope of work that identifies structural modifications, permit requirements, and utility shutoff windows. We coordinate with your operations manager to schedule the install during planned downtime or overnight shifts, minimizing impact on production schedules and tenant comfort in multi-use buildings.
02

Equipment Rigging and Placement

The crane operator positions the rooftop package unit over the curb adapter using a four-point rigging harness. Our crew guides the unit into place and torques mounting bolts to manufacturer torque specs. We verify level within 0.25 degrees using a digital inclinometer. Refrigerant lines connect through flare fittings with leak-tested joints. Condensate drains and ductwork transitions seal with mastic and reinforced foil tape, not standard duct tape.
03

Startup and Performance Verification

We energize the unit and run it through a full cooling cycle, measuring amperage draw on each compressor and fan motor. Supply air temperature drop across the evaporator coil must fall within manufacturer specifications. We program economizer lockouts based on Houston's enthalpy conditions and calibrate space thermostats to your setpoint schedule. You get a commissioning report with baseline performance data for future troubleshooting and maintenance planning.

Why Houston Facilities Trust Titan HVAC for Rooftop Unit Installation

Commercial HVAC work in Houston requires familiarity with the City's permitting process and inspection protocols. We maintain active relationships with the Houston Permitting Center and understand the documentation requirements for mechanical permits under the 2021 International Mechanical Code as adopted by the City. That knowledge prevents the permit delays that stall projects and extend your equipment downtime.

Our technicians hold EPA Section 608 Universal certification for refrigerant handling and complete ongoing training on variable-speed compressor technology and advanced control systems. We work on facilities across Houston's industrial base, from cold storage warehouses in the East End to data centers in the Energy Corridor. That diversity of experience means we have encountered the edge cases and failure modes that generic HVAC contractors miss.

Titan HVAC Houston stocks commercial-grade RTU components and maintains vendor relationships with Trane, Carrier, and Daikin for expedited parts delivery. When a compressor fails on a Friday afternoon, we do not tell you to wait until Monday. Our service vehicles carry the diagnostic tools and replacement parts to address most failures on the first trip. For larger rooftop package unit installations, we coordinate equipment deliveries directly with manufacturers to avoid the markup and lead time of distributor networks.

We understand the liability implications of HVAC failures in Houston's commercial sector. A failed RTU in a restaurant means health code violations. A failed unit in a pharmaceutical warehouse means ruined inventory and regulatory reporting. We approach every commercial RTU install with the assumption that failure is not an option, and we engineer redundancy and fail-safes into the system design.

What to Expect from Your Commercial Rooftop HVAC Installation

Project Timeline and Coordination

A standard commercial RTU install takes one to three days, depending on unit size and site complexity. We schedule crane lifts during low-traffic periods and coordinate utility shutoffs with your facility manager. For multi-unit installations, we stage equipment deliveries to avoid overcrowding your loading dock. You receive a project timeline with critical path milestones and contingency plans for weather delays. Houston's afternoon thunderstorms during summer months can ground crane operations, so we build schedule flexibility into every project. Our goal is to complete the installation without disrupting your business operations or tenant occupancy.

Load Calculation and Equipment Selection

We perform Manual N load calculations to determine the correct tonnage for your facility. Undersized units run continuously and fail early. Oversized units short-cycle and cannot dehumidify properly in Houston's humid climate. We account for roof solar gain, occupancy loads, and process heat from equipment. For warehouses and distribution centers, we calculate ventilation requirements per IMC Section 403 based on your building volume and occupancy classification. You receive equipment recommendations with efficiency ratings, sound levels, and total installed cost. We present options across multiple manufacturers so you can make an informed decision based on lifecycle cost, not just upfront price.

System Performance and Efficiency

Your new rooftop package unit will deliver the tonnage and airflow specified in the equipment submittal. We commission the system using calibrated instruments and verify performance against AHRI certification data. Economizers get programmed with Houston's climate-specific enthalpy setpoints to maximize free cooling during mild weather. Variable-speed fans reduce energy consumption during partial load conditions, which represent 80 percent of operating hours for most commercial facilities. You will see lower utility bills and fewer service calls. Modern RTU controls provide remote monitoring through web-based dashboards, giving you real-time visibility into system performance and early warning of maintenance issues before they become failures.

Maintenance Planning and Support

We provide comprehensive system documentation, including wiring diagrams, refrigerant circuit schematics, and control sequences. Your maintenance staff receives training on filter replacement, condensate drain cleaning, and basic troubleshooting procedures. We offer preventive maintenance agreements that include quarterly inspections, coil cleaning, and refrigerant charge verification. Houston's airborne particulates and humidity accelerate filter loading and coil fouling, so regular maintenance is not optional. Our service agreements prioritize response times and include after-hours emergency support. When you call, you reach a technician who understands your facility and has access to your equipment history, not a generic call center.

Frequently Asked Questions

You Have Questions,
We Have Answers

How much does it cost to install a rooftop unit? +

Rooftop unit installation costs vary based on tonnage, efficiency ratings, curb adapters, and access complexity. A 3-ton unit starts around mid-range pricing, while a 10-ton unit increases substantially. Houston buildings often require crane lifts due to low roof access points, adding labor costs. Ductwork modifications, electrical upgrades, and gas line connections also impact final pricing. Commercial buildings with multiple units see economies of scale. Expect additional costs for structural evaluations on older Houston properties where roof decking may need reinforcement. Factor in permit fees and post-installation commissioning. Request itemized quotes comparing SEER ratings to calculate long-term energy savings.

What does a rooftop unit sit on? +

A rooftop unit sits on a roof curb, a raised metal frame that provides structural support and weatherproofing. The curb elevates the unit above the roof membrane, preventing water intrusion and allowing proper drainage. In Houston's heavy rain climate, curbs must be flashed and sealed to withstand intense storms. Curbs also house ductwork connections and electrical conduit entry points. Pre-fabricated curbs match specific unit dimensions, while field-built curbs accommodate custom installations. Vibration isolation pads between the unit and curb reduce noise transmission into occupied spaces below. Proper curb height ensures condensate drains function correctly during Houston's humid summers.

What is the average lifespan of a rooftop unit? +

Commercial rooftop units average 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Houston's high humidity and UV exposure accelerate wear on compressors and coils. Units running year-round in Gulf Coast heat experience more stress than those in moderate climates. Preventive maintenance extends lifespan by addressing refrigerant leaks, cleaning coils, and replacing filters quarterly. Coastal salt air in southeast Houston shortens component life if not cleaned regularly. Buildings operating units 24/7 see shorter lifespans than those with programmable setbacks. Quality installation matters. Units improperly charged or installed without adequate airflow fail prematurely. Budget for replacement planning at the 12-year mark.

How heavy is a 5 ton rooftop unit? +

A 5-ton rooftop unit weighs between 600 and 900 pounds, depending on the manufacturer and efficiency features. Gas-electric combination units weigh more than electric-only models due to heat exchangers. High-efficiency units with larger coils and variable-speed components add weight. Houston installations require structural assessment before placement, particularly on older commercial buildings with deteriorating roof decking. Crane access determines installation feasibility. Weight concentrates on roof curbs, so load distribution matters. Buildings with multiple units must account for cumulative dead loads. Engineers verify load-bearing capacity during design phases. Heavier units may require additional roof reinforcement or cross-bracing to meet local building codes.

What is the $5000 AC rule? +

The $5000 AC rule states that if repair costs exceed $5000 or if the unit's age multiplied by repair cost exceeds $5000, replacement makes better financial sense than repair. For commercial properties, this calculation factors in lost productivity from downtime. A 12-year-old unit needing a $600 compressor replacement equals $7200, suggesting replacement. Houston business owners must weigh repair costs against rising energy bills from inefficient equipment. Newer units offer better SEER ratings, reducing operating costs. Consider total cost of ownership, not just upfront repair expenses. Frequent breakdowns signal systemic failure. Plan capital expenditures accordingly to avoid emergency replacements during peak cooling season.

What are the disadvantages of RTU? +

Rooftop units require crane access for installation and major repairs, increasing service costs. Exposure to Houston's UV radiation, hail, and windborne debris shortens component life compared to ground-level equipment. Roof membrane damage during maintenance creates leak risks. Units are visible from neighboring buildings, impacting aesthetics. Technicians face safety risks working at heights, potentially increasing labor rates. Ductwork runs through conditioned spaces lose less energy than rooftop duct runs across hot roof surfaces. Noise transmission affects upper floors if vibration isolation fails. Corrosion from ponding water accelerates on flat commercial roofs common in Houston. Security is lower than ground-level units behind fencing.

What is the 3 minute rule for AC? +

The 3-minute rule prevents compressor damage by requiring a minimum 3-minute delay between shutdown and restart. Refrigerant pressure must equalize before the compressor restarts, or the motor draws excessive current and overheats. Commercial rooftop units use time-delay relays or smart controls to enforce this interval. In Houston facilities with frequent power fluctuations during storm season, this protection is critical. Bypassing the delay causes short-cycling, reduces efficiency, and voids warranties. Building management systems should include this delay in programming. Technicians verify relay function during maintenance. Units cycling rapidly indicate thermostat issues, refrigerant problems, or control failures requiring immediate diagnosis.

Do AC units make your electric bill go up? +

Yes, air conditioning significantly increases electric bills, particularly in Houston's extended cooling season. Commercial rooftop units run March through November, driving demand charges during peak hours. A 10-ton unit consumes 12,000 watts per hour at full load. Inefficient units or those low on refrigerant draw more power. Dirty coils force compressors to work harder, spiking consumption. Programmable thermostats and economizers reduce runtime by using outside air during cooler mornings. Demand response programs offer rebates for load-shedding during grid stress. Higher SEER-rated units lower operating costs substantially over 15-year lifespans. Monitor utility data to identify units consuming excessive power, signaling needed repairs or replacement.

What are common RTU problems? +

Common rooftop unit problems include refrigerant leaks from vibration-induced cracks, clogged condensate drains causing water damage, and failed capacitors preventing compressor starts. Houston's humidity fosters mold growth in drain pans and ductwork. Contactor pitting from frequent cycling causes no-cooling calls. Dirty evaporator coils restrict airflow, freezing coils and reducing capacity. Outdoor coils clogged with cottonwood seeds and debris overheat compressors. Economizer dampers seize from lack of use, wasting energy. Thermostat calibration drift causes comfort complaints. Compressor failures from loss of lubrication end unit life prematurely. Belt-driven fans require tension adjustments. Regular maintenance prevents 80 percent of these failures.

Which HVAC unit lasts the longest? +

Commercial packaged rooftop units from manufacturers specializing in robust construction last longest, typically 18 to 25 years with proper maintenance. Units with scroll compressors outlast reciprocating models. Stainless steel heat exchangers resist corrosion in Houston's coastal humidity better than aluminized steel. Variable-speed systems with soft-start technology reduce mechanical stress, extending component life. Quality installation determines longevity. Units properly charged, leveled, and commissioned operate efficiently for decades. Preventive maintenance contracts ensure coils stay clean, refrigerant levels remain optimal, and minor issues get addressed before causing failures. Ground-level split systems in protected locations outlast exposed rooftop units but sacrifice space efficiency.

How Houston's Coastal Climate Impacts Rooftop AC Replacement Decisions

Houston sits 50 feet above sea level and less than 60 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. That proximity creates a year-round humidity problem for commercial rooftop HVAC systems. Condensate production in Houston RTUs runs double the volume of units in dry climates, overwhelming drain pans and creating water damage inside ductwork. Salt air from the coast corrodes condenser coils and cabinet hardware, shortening equipment life by 30 percent compared to inland installations. Commercial facilities near the Ship Channel or along Interstate 10 near Baytown face accelerated deterioration. When you replace a rooftop unit in Houston, you must specify corrosion-resistant coatings and oversized condensate management systems to handle local conditions.

Houston enforces the 2021 International Mechanical Code with local amendments that affect commercial RTU installations. Curb adapters must meet wind uplift ratings for 130 mph wind speeds per the City's hurricane preparedness standards. Electrical disconnects require weatherproof enclosures rated for outdoor use in wet locations. These details separate compliant installations from code violations that generate stop-work orders and failed inspections. Titan HVAC Houston maintains relationships with City inspectors and understands the documentation requirements for mechanical permits. We pull permits, schedule inspections, and deliver systems that pass on the first review. That local knowledge prevents the delays and rework that extend your project timeline and keep your facility running on a failing HVAC system.

HVAC Services in The Houston Area

Titan HVAC is proud to serve Houston and the surrounding areas with expert heating and cooling solutions. Our central location allows us to respond quickly to both residential and commercial clients. Whether you need an emergency fix or scheduled service, we’re never far away. Explore our service area and see how close comfort really is. We're just a call or click away—connect with us today.

Address:
Titan HVAC Houston, 3730 Kirby DrHouston, Houston, TX, 77098

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Contact Us

Your facility cannot afford extended downtime from a failed rooftop unit. Call Titan HVAC Houston at (281) 552-7766 to schedule a site assessment and receive a detailed proposal for your commercial rooftop HVAC installation. We deliver engineered solutions that keep your operations running.