HVAC, Plumbing, & Electrical Blog Hillside, IL

Is Commercial Solar Energy Effective in a Place Like Chicago?

August 19th, 2024

When it comes to embracing renewable energy, many business owners are curious about how well solar power will perform in their location. If your commercial building is in Chicago, you might be wondering whether solar energy is a viable option given the city’s reputation for cloudy days, cold winters, and unpredictable weather. As a commercial HVAC contractor who also specializes in solar installation in Chicago, IL, we’re here to assure you that solar energy is not only effective in Chicago but can be a game-changer for your business.

Benefits of VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives) in Commercial Facilities

August 5th, 2024

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As a leading commercial electrical and HVAC contractor serving the Chicagoland area since 1961, we’re committed to providing cutting-edge solutions that enhance the efficiency and performance of commercial facilities. One such solution is the Variable Frequency Drive (VFD), a technology that has become increasingly popular due to its numerous benefits.

Below, we’ll explore what VFDs are and why they are indispensable in modern commercial facilities. You can rely on us for complete service for VFDs in Chicago.

When Will You Need to Replace Your Commercial Solar Panels?

July 22nd, 2024

As a business owner, investing in commercial solar installation in Chicago, IL is a significant and savvy decision. Solar panels are not only a sustainable choice but also a financially sound investment with impressive longevity.

We’ve seen countless businesses reap the benefits of going solar. However, like any other equipment, solar panels have a lifespan, and knowing when to replace them is crucial for maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Commercial Solar ROI Success Story – Northwest Suburban Chicago

July 12th, 2024

We know the first question when evaluating adding Solar to your building is, “Does this make economic sense?” We are here say, that time and time again, the answer is “Yes!”

After a short evaluation of your building, it’s location and your energy usage, we can craft an Illustration that will outline the Return on Investment for your proposed project.

Here is just one example of some of our projects:

A Northwest Suburban Commercial building owner was looking for a solar array that would offset up to 80% of its’ electrical costs. Within 3 days from our initial visit, we were able to draft a detailed proposal and analysis for a 202 kW Rooftop system that will result in a Return of Investment of 4.2 years when combining Federal Tax Credits and Depreciation, State and Utility Incentive programs and Energy Savings.

Discover how we can maximize your solar Return on Investment. Let’s work together to find your optimal commercial solar solution!

Contact Althoff Industries, Inc. for the best in modern commercial electrical services.

Challenges Accepted!

The Biggest Threats to Commercial Indoor Air Quality Today

July 8th, 2024

Maintaining optimal indoor air quality (IAQ) inside commercial buildings is crucial. We have a long history servicing the needs of Chicagoland businesses, so we understand the complexities and challenges involved in managing commercial indoor air quality. These challenges are always changing, and indoor air quality has become an even more important factor during the last twenty years.

Today, we’re going to look at the current major threats to the quality of the air inside commercial facilities. We offer services for commercial indoor air quality in St. Charles, IL and through Chicagoland that will help you improve IAQ for your business, benefiting employees, the public, equipment, and processes.

How to Tell Your VRF System Is Malfunctioning

June 24th, 2024

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are increasing in popularity in commercial properties thanks to their high energy efficiency, zoning capabilities, flexibility, scalability, space-saving design, and more. But even the most advanced in newer commercial HVAC technologies can still malfunction, and we want to ensure that you know the signs of trouble with your VRF system. That way you can promptly call our technicians for AC repair in Chicago.

When to Upgrade Your Commercial Water Heater

June 10th, 2024

One of the most critical aspects of maintaining a functional and efficient commercial facility is ensuring that your water heater(s) is in optimal condition. Although you can always depend on our team for water heater repair in Chicago, there will come a time when it’s best to stop putting money into increasing repair costs and instead upgrade to a new water heater.

Below, we’ll look at signs that it’s time to replace your old water heater and reap the benefits of a newer, more efficient model.

Understanding the Importance of Risers in Commercial Plumbing

May 27th, 2024

Maintaining a commercial building involves many intricate systems working together seamlessly. One of the most critical yet often overlooked components of a commercial plumbing system is the riser, also known as a riser main. These pipes transport water to the upper floors of a building, ensuring that all areas have adequate water pressure and supply. Risers age, and any business will eventually need to look into riser replacement.

We’re going to examine the importance of risers in commercial plumbing as well as the signs that indicate when riser replacement is necessary.

The Benefits of a Commercial Landscape Lighting Retrofit

May 13th, 2024

We have decades of experience working with all types of commercial electrical jobs in Chicagoland, and that means we often see commercial properties with outdated, inefficient, and ineffective landscape lighting. A reason for this is that it’s easy for a facility owner or manager to overlook the importance of landscape lighting.

The right retrofit for your commercial landscape lighting in Chicago can enhance your property’s visual appeal, improve safety, and contribute to energy savings. Today, we’re going to look more into the reasons to consider upgrading and retrofitting your landscape lighting and how this service can transform your property.

What You Need to Know About Commercial Plumbing Regulations

April 15th, 2024

Althoff Industries has served the commercial plumbing needs of Chicagoland since 1960. That means we have many decades of experience ensuring that businesses meet and exceed local, state, and federal plumbing codes. If you try to navigate these regulations on your own, you’ll quickly find them overwhelming.

To help you understand the importance of working with a licensed commercial plumber, we’re going to break down several of the codes and regulations that need to be kept in mind during any commercial plumbing service.