As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures drop, commercial business owners should turn their attention to a critical aspect of their infrastructure—the HVAC system. Neglecting to perform preventative maintenance on your system can lead to discomfort, operational disruptions, and costly repairs when winter truly sets in.
Thankfully, getting ready for the fall and winter weather doesn’t have to be a hassle. Keep reading for fall heating tips that’ll save you money.
The Importance of Seasonal HVAC Maintenance
Fall is here, and as a commercial building manager, you need to ensure your facilities have the resources they need to survive the rest of the year. This means surveying your unit and arranging system maintenance well in advance of the winter months to prevent damage. There’s nothing worse than dealing with an unexpected and preventable heating system malfunction in the dead of winter.
Here are some compelling reasons why early HVAC maintenance is crucial:
- Preventing Costly Repairs: Addressing minor issues during fall maintenance can prevent them from escalating into major, expensive repairs during the winter. Early intervention is costeffective.
- Avoiding Downtime: A malfunctioning HVAC system can disrupt business operations, leading to downtime, discomfort for employees and customers, and potential revenue loss.
- Extending System Lifespan: Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your HVAC system, delaying the need for a costly replacement.
- Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained HVAC system operates efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Neglected systems work harder, consuming more energy and increasing costs.
- Addressing Safety Concerns: Malfunctioning heating systems, including carbon monoxide leaks, can pose safety risks. Early maintenance ensures the system operates safely.
Do I Need an HVAC Checklist?
Building owners and managers should have a checklist to follow when preparing for the winter months. After all, HVAC systems are the biggest energy consumers in a standard commercial building. Keeping your equipment in great shape means your HVAC consumes less energy and lasts much longer.
How to Protect Your HVAC in Winter
With enough preventative maintenance, keeping your commercial heating and air conditioning unit in order is simple. Try the following steps, depending on your system’s needs.
1. Inspect and Clean Your HVAC System
The first step in preparing your HVAC system for winter is to conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning. Over the summer months, dust, debris, and contaminants can accumulate in the system. A subpar HVAC system operates less efficiently and can lead to poor indoor air quality.
During the fall, business owners should hire a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean the entire system. This includes cleaning air filters, ductwork, coils, and the blower motor. Clean components ensure efficient operation and reduce the risk of system breakdowns during the winter months.
2. Check and Replace Air Filters and Vents
Air filters are a crucial component of any HVAC system. They play a key role in maintaining indoor air quality by trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants. Over time, air filters become clogged, reducing airflow and causing the system to work harder. This increased strain can lead to breakdowns and higher energy bills.
Before winter arrives, replace all air filters in your HVAC system. This measure can reduce energy consumption levels by 16%. Consider using high-efficiency filters to improve indoor air quality and reduce the workload on your heating system.
3. Test the Thermostat
A properly functioning thermostat is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. During the fall, test your thermostat to ensure it accurately reads and maintains the desired temperature. If you notice any discrepancies or issues, contact an HVAC technician for repairs or a thermostat replacement. Take this opportunity to tune up the furnace, clean components, and inspect the heat exchanger.
4. Seal Ductwork Leaks and Insulate
Heating a commercial space can be a significant expense during the winter months. To maximize energy efficiency, it’s essential to seal any air leaks and improve insulation. Common areas to check for air leaks include doors, windows, and ductwork.
Covering holes with mastic sealant on joints and gaps and adding insulation can help retain heat and reduce the workload on your HVAC system, leading to lower energy bills and improved comfort for occupants. Take things a step further and trim the foliage to allow sunlight to reach the unit and melt snow and ice.
5. Schedule System Start-Ups
One of the most critical measures for preparing your commercial HVAC system for winter is to schedule system start-ups. HVAC start-ups are comprehensive inspections and maintenance services provided by professional technicians before the winter season begins.
Start-ups typically include:
- Thorough system inspection to identify and address any potential issues.
- Cleaning of components, including burners, heat exchangers, and blower motor.
- Lubrication of moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
- Checking and calibrating thermostat settings for optimal performance.
- Testing the safety controls and gas pressure.
- Ensuring that the system is operating efficiently and safely.
It’s essential to schedule HVAC start-ups well before the winter season to avoid the rush and ensure that your system is in peak condition when needed.
How a Specialist Ensures Your HVAC Unit Works Properly
To schedule an inspection for your heating system, get in touch with a contractor who knows what your system needs for a performance boost. At Frazier Service Co., our technicians are trained to identify issues, safely correct them, and prevent future malfunctions. When a specialist inspects your commercial HVAC system, they do the following for both indoor and outdoor units:
- Clean Combustion Blower Housing
- Measure and Recharge Refrigerant Level
- Inspect Control Box, Switches, Safety Controls, and Wiring
- Check Flue System for Dislocations
- Clean and Clear Drip Pan, Condensate Lines, and Evaporator Coil
- And Much More
Prepare for Fall With Frazier Service
Ready to schedule an inspection? Frazier believes in building long-term relationships with our clients. We offer quality building management services and seasonal HVAC maintenance to guarantee your commercial building has what it needs to handle the cold. Reach out today to see how we handle HVAC replacements, preventative maintenance, and repair.
