Packaged Rooftop Unit Economizer Functional Test

It covers the core checks needed to verify air-side economizer performance on a packaged rooftop unit: unit identification, test conditions, damper stroke, position feedback, outdoor air and mixed air sensor calibration, enable/disable response, and high-limit lockout behavior. It also includes space for deficiencies, corrective actions, and sign-off. Use it when you need a documented functional test rather than a simple visual inspection.

Use it during commissioning, seasonal changeover, preventive maintenance verification, or after repairs to dampers, actuators, sensors, or controls. It is especially useful when a building should be using free cooling but the unit is not economizing as expected. It is not the right template for unrelated rooftop checks such as refrigerant leak surveys, belt inspections, or general housekeeping.

A qualified HVAC technician, controls contractor, commissioning agent, or other competent person familiar with rooftop unit controls should run it. The person performing the test should understand the unit sequence, know how to place the system into test mode if needed, and be able to identify unsafe conditions. The responsible party should review and accept any deficiencies recorded on the form.

The cadence depends on the owner’s maintenance program, local requirements, and how critical the unit is to occupied comfort and energy performance. Many teams test at startup, after major service, and during periodic preventive maintenance or seasonal changeover. If the building has recurring comfort complaints or high energy use, testing should be repeated after any control changes or sensor replacement.

This template supports documentation aligned with common HVAC and energy-control expectations, including ASHRAE 90.1-style economizer performance requirements and general mechanical safety practices. It can also support owner quality systems or commissioning records where proof of functional operation is needed. It is not a substitute for local code review, manufacturer instructions, or AHJ requirements.

Common mistakes include skipping the actual damper stroke test, assuming sensor values are correct without calibration evidence, and failing to record the high-limit lockout setting. Another frequent issue is not confirming that mechanical cooling stages come on when economizer operation is disabled. The template helps prevent these gaps by forcing each control response to be observed and documented.

Yes. You can add your BAS point names, sequence notes, trend screenshots, or setpoint references so the record matches your controls platform. If your site uses specific lockout logic, enthalpy control, or occupancy-based overrides, those details can be added in the setup or corrective action sections. Keep the observable test steps intact so the form still proves functional performance.

An ad-hoc inspection often catches only obvious issues like a stuck damper or failed actuator. This template goes further by documenting whether the economizer actually responds correctly to commands, whether sensors are calibrated, and whether lockout logic protects the unit when free cooling should not run. That makes it more useful for troubleshooting, acceptance, and repeatable maintenance records.