With the changing of the seasons ahead, now is a great time to prime your commercial HVAC systems for the seasonal transition. Preparing for cooler weather should ensure that your heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are as efficient as possible, saving you money on your electric bills and reducing the risk of costly mechanical failures. Here are some of the essential steps that you should take to fall-proof your commercial HVAC system:
Schedule a Professional Inspection
It is important to have your HVAC thoroughly checked by a trained HVAC technician to prevent damage and breakdown by verifying if parts are working properly, cleaning them and making adjustments where needed. Checking your air conditioner can save you a lot of trouble and help maintain your system for longer.
Clean and Replace Filters
Taking the air filters out, shaking off the impurities, and replacing them is probably the easiest, yet most important task you can do to maintain your system. Running your heating and cooling system with dirty filters significantly reduces its ability to breath and causes it to work harder and use more energy. Properly maintained filters improve the air quality and the efficiency of the system.
Check Thermostat Settings
It is that time of the year to complete the annual checkup of your thermostat. If your building is unoccupied for long periods, install a programmable-thermostat to automatically adjust building temperatures according to building occupancy schedule and save you energy as well as comfort.
Inspect and Clean Ductwork
Dust, debris and even mould can accumulate over time in your ductwork, reducing the air quality of the air coming from your unit. Inspect and clean ducts to ensure good airflow and healthy living.
Examine and Clean Coils
The evaporator and condenser coils can become dirty enough to decrease performance. Regular cleaning in both areas boosts heat-transfer efficiency and energy efficiency over time.
Check Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels can cause your system to run uncomfortably inefficiently, and could damage components. Have a pro check and top off levels as needed.
Inspect and Lubricate Moving Parts
Make sure that all the moving parts (like belts and motors) are well-lubricated. Friction and wear will be reduced, and these components will last longer, reducing the chance of breakdowns.
Ensure Proper Insulation
Look at your ductwork and all around the building. There is no point heating the outdoors with your utility bill. Adding insulation to stop heat loss saves money, so that when it is cold out and your heat is on, the heat stays in.
Evaluate Indoor Air Quality Solutions
During the winter when it is cold, the building is closed providing a good insulation. This can also be the cause of poor air quality inside. You could think of incorporating a system with air cleaners, humidifiers or dehumidifiers to make sure you have good indoor air.
Prepare for Emergency Situations
Even with the best planning in place, emergencies can still surface. So, it’s a good idea to have a plan for how you or your employees will handle HVAC emergencies, as well as the contact information of a qualified HVAC service provider at the ready.
The Benefits of Fall HVAC Maintenance
Energy Efficiency: Well-maintained systems operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.
Extended Equipment Lifespan: The less you drive your car, the longer it will last. The same principle applies to HVAC systems; regular maintenance extends their useful life by reducing wear and tear.
Improved Comfort: A properly functioning HVAC system maintains consistent and comfortable indoor temperatures.
Improved Air Quality: Less dust means healthier indoor air, especially during cold and flu season.
Cost Savings: Preventative maintenance helps avoid costly repairs and unexpected system failures.
Conclusion
It’s not just comfort that you need to be concerned about. Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) is essential for energy efficiency, budgetary concerns and a healthy indoor environment. Be prepared by getting your commercial HVAC ready for the fall, and work through the proper steps with a trained HVAC service provider.
Professional HVAC services and advice can be found at Burban Air Systems Ltd. Our friendly staff can get your commercial HVAC system in top-running condition year-round.