AHU or RTU startup found an install problem. What should I document first?

Document the symptom, equipment tag, duct connection, access, vibration/noise/leak/airflow issue, and who needs to direct the fix. Do not adjust controls, wiring, gas, refrigerant, or startup settings unless qualified and directed.

Document tag, symptom, duct/access/connection condition, and scope before touching controls or equipment settings.

Stop if

• Startup found [symptom] at [equipment tag/location]. I documented the duct/access/connection condition. Do you want our crew to correct anything, or should this go to startup/TAB/controls/service?

Watch out

• Do not adjust controls, wiring, VFDs, gas, refrigerant, safety devices, or startup settings unless you are qualified and directed.

Check

• Equipment tag/location
• Startup symptom
• Duct/access/connection condition
• Scope boundary
• Who owns the next correction

Steps

• Get the equipment tag and location.
• Identify the symptom: vibration, leak, no air, noise, condensate, access, louver, damper, or curb/duct fit-up.
• Take photos/video that show the symptom and connection.
• Check your install scope before touching other trade systems.
• Ask what to correct versus what belongs to startup/TAB/controls/service.

More in Equipment Connections: RTU, AHU, VAV, Fans & Louvers