Tips for Maintaining Your Business’s HVAC System

 

Routine maintenance of your company's HVAC system keeps utility costs low and reduces the amount your business spends on equipment repairs and replacement. A properly functioning HVAC system also keeps your staff comfortable and preserves indoor air quality. Seasonal maintenance performed by a licensed HVAC technician is an important part of maintaining your company's HVAC system. However, your business's leadership also has a role to play in your HVAC system's performance.

HVAC Maintenance: What to DIY

These tasks may seem small, but doing them regularly will keep your HVAC unit running smoothly for a long time. Not only will this effort result in more comfortable working conditions. This is a large unit that can be very expensive to replace, so having a well-maintained one can be a great incentive to potential buyers.

• Clean or change the air filter. HVAC air filters remove dust and airborne pollutants from the air so they don't clog up machinery or harm employee health. Filters should be changed when they get dirty. How frequently that is depends on a number of factors, but manufacturing environments typically need to replace filters monthly. Upgrading to a high-performance air filter or a washable air filter can reduce the amount you spend on replacement filters.
• Clean HVAC coils. Dirty coils hinder your HVAC system's performance. Inspect evaporator and condenser coils twice per year. If they appear dirty, clean the coils with a mild solution of water and detergent. Noble Air offers more detailed instructions for HVAC coil cleaning. If a stronger solvent is necessary, refer the job to your HVAC technician to avoid damage.

Documenting Your Work

When performing any work on your HVAC system yourself, it’s essential to document the tasks you complete and the materials you reference. Keeping detailed records, such as maintenance steps or diagrams you consulted, can be invaluable if an HVAC professional needs to address issues later. To stay organized, use a free scanner app to scan a document like a user manual or repair guide and save it for easy access. This ensures you have everything on hand to provide accurate information about the system’s history when needed.

HVAC Maintenance: When to Hire a Technician

A commercial HVAC system is a complicated and expensive piece of equipment. If you attempt to DIY something you shouldn't, you could cause damage that costs much more than professional HVAC servicing would! Schedule HVAC service every spring and fall to address the following tasks:

• Inspect fans, belts, and bearings, replacing as necessary.
• Inspect and clean HVAC coils and condensate lines.
• Inspect and tighten electrical connections.
• Check refrigerant levels and recharge as needed.
• Lubricate moving parts.
• Test safety controls.

Tracking Expenses

Whenever you purchase HVAC supplies or pay for repairs, it’s important to keep any receipts, as these are business expenses you can claim as deductions. Organizing these receipts in a dedicated folder or filing system can save time and prevent them from getting lost. Instead of trying to keep up with loose receipts, keeping digital records will make it easier to stay organized.

How to Find the Right HVAC Company

Rather than choosing the HVAC company with the lowest rates, carefully review contract terms to find the service plan that meets your business's needs. Chron explains what to consider when shopping for a commercial HVAC maintenance contract. Ask potential companies about the parts and materials they use. You’ll want to find one that uses a high-quality parts provider. If you do your research and feel their supplier is substandard, then go with someone else.

Prioritize HVAC System Maintenance

Your business's HVAC system can easily fall into the category of “out of sight, out of mind.” But even though it's working behind the scenes, your HVAC system is critical to the success of your business. If you want to save money on equipment repairs and make your company a safe and comfortable place to work, make HVAC maintenance a top priority.

Routine HVAC maintenance reduces utility and repair costs while ensuring a comfortable workplace and high indoor air quality. It's important to distinguish between tasks suitable for DIY, like changing air filters, and those requiring professional technicians, such as system inspections and refrigerant checks. Choosing a reliable HVAC maintenance provider involves assessing their parts quality and service plan comprehensiveness. Prioritizing HVAC upkeep is crucial for operational efficiency and employee well-being.

For expert servicing and maintenance for commercial HVAC, refrigeration, and cooking equipment, contact SSI Services today!