Owning a commercial property means doing your best to keep customers and employees comfortable. One way to do this is to ensure that your HVAC system is in good working order. Preventative care and maintenance will help keep your system working well longer. Here are five tips for proper maintenance.
1. Change The Filters
A basic way to keep your HVAC running is making sure the filters are changed out as needed. For commercial systems, they should be changed every one to three months. Your building’s needs may vary depending on allergen levels. Filters should have sufficient MERV ratings to do their job. A rating between 7 and 11 is recommended. Change air purification system filters and clean filters in ductless systems, too.
2. Clean The Condensing Unit
There is an outdoor unit with a fan for most HVAC systems. This unit needs to be cleaned thoroughly so the fan does not get covered in dirt, pollen, or other things. A clean unit will keep the fan in good shape. You may clean the unit using a hose. Using high pressure is not recommended as it could do irreparable damage to the unit.
3. Make Sure To Maintain Clearance
Another thing you can do to help maintain your HVAC system is making sure it has space. The outdoor unit should have a clearance of a minimum of two feet per side. Bushes should be trimmed and limited or no vegetation should be allowed within that space. Also, be cautious of any trees or plants that produce large amounts of pollen which may clog the fan.
4. Check The Drainipes And Evaporator Coil
Every HVAC system will have a drainpipe, drain pan, and evaporator coil. You may need to check your system’s manual or ask a professional to help you locate them. Drainpipes can very often grow algae or mold, which leads to them becoming clogged and not working well or not working at all. You may need to use a wet/dry vacuum to unclog your lines. Some people treat their lines with bleach or algaecide to clean it and prevent future clogs from occurring in the system. Clogged drain pipes are one of the most common issues that people have with their commercial HVAC systems. It’s important to ensure pipes are flowing freely to avoid issues such as leaks that may become quite costly.
5. Enlist Professionals For Regular Maintenance
A great way to keep your HVAC up and running is to get a professional to do regularly scheduled maintenance on your system. Professionals have the knowledge, experience, and tools to do the job well. When you get regular HVAC maintenance, some of the things a professional can do include:
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Flushing the coils
- Vacuuming the blowers
- Checking voltage levels
- Ensuring wires are not loose
- Making sure the controls work properly
- Making sure the furnace is operational
Scheduling HVAC maintenance twice a year can be considered an investment in your property, your employees, and your customers. It can help keep them safe and comfortable all year long. Not only that, but it will also save you time and money in the end.