Heating and Cooling System Larger and mid-sized retail stores with self-standing buildings will have some type of heating and cooling system. In a larger "big box" store this may consist of dedicated air conditioning systems and conventional boilers within the building envelope. Another method of creating comfort heat is through radiant heating systems involving a boiler and circulating pump connected to piping installed in the floor of the store. Some stores will even locate radiant heating pipes under exterior sidewalks to provide for the convenience of their clients during inclement weather. More typical for many mid-sized and small retailer buildings are "packaged" HVAC systems that combine heating and air conditioning functions. Such systems generally include a variety of components such as gas heaters, electric powered compressors, air handlers, blowers and dampers. These can take the form of either rooftop units or ones that can be installed next to the building. Equipment located on the exterior is exposed to the elements and can suffer breakdowns due to water intrusion or weather conditions. In the winter for instance, blower belts on exterior HVAC units tend to break because they are cold and less flexible. It is also not uncommon for the electrical contacts to become corroded which can have an adverse impact on the voltage supplied to motors and compressors and result in their breakdown. Stores that are tenants in a larger building complex, such as a shopping center, are completely dependent upon the building owner to supply heat or air conditioning. As a result, an equipment breakdown to the building owner's equipment can cause a business interruption to retail store tenants. © 2004 The Hartford Steam Boiler Insurance and Inspection Company.     All rights reserved.