When we invest in a valuable asset, we consider how we’re going to take care of it to ensure that it operates for as long as possible. We do this with cars, homes, and even with our phones and tablets.
So, it’s not surprising to find that the commercial HVAC systems that keep our buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer need routine maintenance in order to ensure their optimal performance year after year. Beyond maintaining the system’s level of performance, routine planned maintenance also reassures owners and managers that the system is running as efficiently as possible, and that any components susceptible to standard wear and tear are identified. Those components can then be either repaired or replaced, long before they cause further damage or lead to a shutdown of the system.
Below you’ll find a simple list of the top preventive maintenance services your commercial HVAC system needs throughout the year:
Autumn
The goal of fall maintenance service is to ensure all components of the building’s heating system are cleaned and functioning properly prior to being taxed by the upcoming heating season.
Some actions that will likely be required include:
- A thorough visual inspection of all heating components to verify they’re capable of performing efficiently and effectively for the coming heating season, along with replacement of any worn parts
- Diagnostic testing on any electrical controls and components to ensure the same
- A thorough cleaning of both outside and inside units to remove debris, dust buildup, and any other issues that could hinder efficient performance
- Air filter replacements
- Supply register adjustments
- Thermostat calibrations
Winter
Winter maintenance inspection and services are designed to confirm that the components inspected in the fall are holding up as expected and to ensure all heating parts are performing efficiently at the peak of the heating season.
Some items to keep in mind during this period include:
- Checking for potential energy leaks - such as poorly insulated or sealed doors and windows - that could be affecting overall heating performance and efficiency
- Monitoring that vents and ductwork are remaining clean and free of debris
- Adjusting thermostats to appropriately compensate as the outside temperatures fluctuate
Spring
In the spring, long before the peak of the cooling season, a thorough inspection and evaluation of all cooling components should be performed to ensure the cooling system is up to the task of handling the hottest days of the coming summer.
After the long, hard heating season, many of the shared system components - such as vents, ductwork, fans, and electronics - should be inspected and cleaned. In addition, components specific to the cooling system should get special attention, such as:
- Ensure the condenser unit and evaporator coils are clean, free of debris, and straighten any bent coils
- Check drain lines for any blockages or leaks, clean or replace as needed
- Check the refrigerant level and, if low, locate and repair any leaks before refilling
Summer
During the peak of the cooling season, a less intensive inspection and series of evaluations can help ensure that the components tested the previous quarter are holding up as expected and that the system’s energy efficiency settings are still appropriate. If further optimization is needed based on current usage, technicians can identify these issues as part of the evaluation.
If this brief rundown of necessary planned maintenance services is surprising to you, it could be a red flag indicating that your commercial HVAC system hasn’t received the maintenance treatment it really needs. Contact us today to have an energy engineer evaluate your system and discuss options for a planned maintenance program that will protect your building’s valuable HVAC system. Or, download our ebook for information on improving your HVAC system to maximize your ROI.
