When it comes to overall building maintenance procedures, implementing a specific plan for your commercial HVAC system can extend the life of your unit and save money in the long run. Having an efficient, well-run HVAC system from the start can help you avoid headaches down the road. Here are five things you should incorporate into your ongoing maintenance routine to keep your HVAC system running smoothly for years to come.
Seal Windows and Doors
An efficient way to keep your buildings cool in the summer and warm in the winter is to block out external elements as much as possible. If your commercial space is in an older, drafty building, it might be time to have upgrades made to windows and doors, so they are more energy-efficient and can keep interior spaces temperate, no matter the weather outside. These improvements could be as simple as sealing existing window and door frames with weather stripping, or as major as an entire overhaul of existing windows and doors to bolster overall efficiency.
Keep Exterior HVAC Units Clean
Exterior commercial HVAC units outside of buildings sometimes can go to the wayside when it comes to ongoing maintenance and upkeep. Delegating this task to maintenance professionals or landscapers can be a simple way to ensure that exterior units are monitored, kept clean, and clear throughout the year. If any rusting or damage is noted, this can be reported to the building manager, so that external commercial HVAC systems and condensers are serviced and can be quickly fixed when damaged.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Something that should be a regular item on the books of a property management team or building manager is having commercial HVAC systems checked for maintenance on a regularly scheduled basis. This can help identify small issues before these become major problems, and can cut down on the need for expensive emergency repairs. General maintenance can be a great thing to schedule between seasons, when filters may need replacing for maximum efficiency.
Heating and Cooling Alternatives
The more you can do to help practice alternative heating and cooling options throughout a large building or space, the better. This might involve incorporating fans and cooling systems with a fan option as opposed to only ‘off’ and ‘AC’ usage. Invest in industrial screens that are tamper-resistant or adding stoppers on windows. This will allow individuals to open windows for airflow without compromising building safety. Invest in heavy blinds or curtains that can seal in heat when you need this, so you don’t need to rely on your heating system as much.
Focus on Spaces in Use
If you own a large commercial space or have an office with many vacant rooms, put some thought into what areas need to be cooled and heated, and what might not. In the winter months, having doors that automatically shut and keeping doors connecting to larger lobbies and hallways closed will keep heat where it needs to be. Ultimately, you’ll rely on your HVAC system less. Make sure your commercial HVAC system is on a timer and have this checked and serviced regularly. This way, your building won’t be working overtime to cool or heat itself when no one is around, including long weekends and holidays.
Commercial HVAC systems are a great resource in larger commercial spaces, but they shouldn’t be neglected. If you can ensure your HVAC system is serviced regularly, you won’t get stuck with as many emergency repairs and maintenance problems overall. If you are looking for efficient HVAC solutions for a commercial space, contact us to help you get the right equipment installed for your needs.
