Your Commercial HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Keeping your commercial heating and cooling systems in solid condition is essential for your business

Key Takeaways:

• Your HVAC system is an essential component of your business
• Regular maintenance can extend your heating and cooling systems’ lifespans
• This maintenance can also reduce energy costs
• Completing your HVAC maintenance could require professional assistance

As a commercial property owner, you know that taking care of your buildings and equipment is critical when trying to reduce costs. The fewer repairs you require, the less expense you’ll encounter over the course of the year.

Your HVAC system is one element that could require frequent repairs if you don’t take care of it. These systems are expensive to replace, too, so completing the necessary maintenance is paramount. 

However, a commercial HVAC system is complex, and handling all the maintenance alone could prove to be too significant of a job. Following some tips or seeking professional assistance can make the task more manageable, though, helping you stay on the right track. Here’s a commercial HVAC maintenance checklist that can reduce the repairs your system requires and save you money.

Why HVAC maintenance is important

HVAC maintenance is vital for two reasons. First, maintaining your system will reduce the repairs you need in the future. The result is less money going toward new HVAC components and contractors, which is better for your company’s bottom line.

Secondly, HVAC maintenance will reduce your energy expenses. Adequately maintained units use less energy because they don’t have to work as hard to heat or cool your building. Maintenance can also identify problems that could waste energy, including inefficient components or duct leaks. 

Checking your system for problems every six months or whenever you notice increased energy costs ensures your HVAC is always in good shape. The result is less money spent by your company on repairs.

Air conditioning maintenance checklist

Your HVAC setup likely has two distinct systems: cooling and heating. Each appliance has different maintenance needs you’ll have to be aware of before you begin. Your air conditioning maintenance checklist should include the following:

• Removing debris from the outdoor unit – If your cooling system has an outdoor unit, you’ll need to check it for debris and remove anything that could be restricting airflow. Commercial buildings typically have large or multiple outdoor air conditioning units, so this could be a significant job that requires you to head to the roof.
• Inspecting ducts for mold and dust – Mold, dust, and other debris can quickly build up inside your ductwork, and removing it can eliminate a health hazard and keep your system functioning more efficiently. This debris can slow your airflow over time, increasing your energy costs.
• Checking internal components – Your air conditioning units have various interior components, and problems are sure to follow once they start to wear. Inspecting the unit’s pulleys, belts, fans, blower motors, blades, evaporator coils, and condensers ensures these components are functioning correctly and could reduce the problems you experience in the future.
• Looking at the refrigerant – Air conditioning systems rely on refrigerant to remove heat from the air, so you’ll want to inspect your refrigerant charge and check for leaks. You might have to add refrigerant if it’s getting low, although this job is best reserved for a professional. 
• Inspecting the thermostat – Having a look at the thermostat ensures the temperature settings are correct. This small job could save you considerable money because it prevents the system from running when you don’t need it.
• Checking electrical systems and connections – Commercial air conditioning units rely on electrical systems to keep them functional. Therefore, scanning the electrical wiring and connections can prevent malfunctions and help identify problems before they prevent the system from firing up. Hiring a professional electrician can minimize your risk when completing this job.

Keeping these components in good shape will prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning system. It will also save you money in the long run because repairs will become less frequent.

A checklist for heating system maintenance

Your commercial heating system has its own needs, and you’ll want to check its components before turning the system on when temperatures drop a bit in the winter. Proactively completing this maintenance ensures the system is ready to go when needed.

• Inspecting heating elements – Heating elements and exchangers are vital parts of your heating system, so you’ll want to ensure they aren’t cracked or corroded. These components can leak carbon monoxide into the building if you fail to maintain them, making this job even more crucial. 
• Completing flue system check – Your heating unit’s flue system also needs an inspection. This system is responsible for removing dangerous gases from the building, so you’ll want to ensure it isn’t cracked or leaking before using your commercial furnace or boiler.
• Checking the gas pressure – If your commercial building uses a gas furnace, checking the gas pressure is advisable. Testing the gas pressure ensures the system is working reliably and can prevent leaks in the future. 
• Looking at internal parts – Your heating system has numerous internal components that will need attention. These components include fans, ignitions, burners, and blower motors. You’ll need to ensure these components are working and lubricate all moving parts for the best results in the winter. 
• Checking electrical work – Finally, even gas furnaces and boilers rely on electricity to program and function, so inspecting their electrical connections is an excellent idea. Ensuring the electrical connection is sound can eliminate many problems that can occur when you turn your heating system on.

The more work you proactively put into your HVAC system, the better results you can expect. Following this checklist is a solid starting point, as it ensures you’re aware of your system’s most vital details.

Getting expert assistance

Commercial HVAC maintenance is a massive job, especially if you’re responsible for multiple buildings. It’s nearly impossible for one untrained person to handle these requirements alone, so getting a professional on the job is advisable.

Universal Electrical can assist with the electrical portions mentioned in this HVAC maintenance checklist. We can also put you in touch with local HVAC contractors who can help with the rest. Contact Universal Electrical today for more information.