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Replacing a 30-Year-Old Rooftop Heat Pump Without Disrupting Business

November 4, 2026

When a commercial rooftop unit fails, the hard part usually isn't the equipment. It's getting the job done without shutting down the business below. On a recent retail project in San Diego County, we replaced a 30-year-old package heat pump that had stopped working.

Before and after: the 30-year-old rooftop package heat pump and the new unit that replaced it

Starting before sunrise

We arrived before dawn and set up the crane early so the shopping center's parking lot stayed open for customers. The crane lifted the old unit off the roof and set the new one in place.

Crane set up before sunrise to lift the rooftop heat pump

Keeping the space comfortable

While the rooftop unit was out, we ran portable spot coolers inside so staff and clients stayed comfortable during the swap.

More than a unit swap

We replaced the old mechanical thermostat with a programmable one so the system runs efficiently during business hours. We also replaced the electrical service disconnect, fuses and wiring and did a full safety inspection. To keep the project on budget, we reconnected to the existing ductwork and plenums, then found and sealed air leaks for better efficiency and rooftop weatherproofing.

New package heat pump set in place on the roof

The result

The new heat pump is modern and efficient, and the business can get back to serving its clients.

Precision Air Inc owner on the finished roof

If you manage a commercial building with aging rooftop equipment, call us at (760) 858-8000 or visit precision-ac.com. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 to 5.


Need service? Call (760) 858-8000, Monday–Friday 8–5, or send us a message.

Call (760) 858-8000