Did you know that the commercial buildings sector accounts for 19 percent of the total energy consumption in the United States? And a big contributor is their reliance on space heating and cooling. HVAC systems make up 39 percent of energy consumption in commercial buildings.
But the high electricity bills aren’t just the main concern of building managers. Another huge issue they constantly face is commercial HVAC maintenance.
After all, a bogged down air-conditioning system leads to unhappy tenants. And tenant complaints can give rise to legal issues.
Investing in maintenance may help you save big on repair and energy costs. Read on to know useful HVAC maintenance tips for building managers.
1. Replace the Air Filters
The company’s HVAC system should work at peak performance. But how do you make sure this happens?
By ensuring you replace the filters once a month, at the very least. Sanitary and maintained air filters would mean clean air and a longer life for the HVAC system.
A clogged air filter blocks normal airflow. This then reduces the system’s efficiency.
Furthermore, replacing air filters reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. CO poisoning claims the lives of more than 400 Americans every year.
Thus, building managers should conduct commercial HVAC maintenance by replacing air filters often.
2. Check HVAC Settings to Get Greatest Efficiency
Building managers can reduce energy costs and prolong the life of the HVAC system by keeping its settings in check.
You can actually save as much as 10 percent a year!
It’s easy – calibrate the thermostat to make tenants comfortable. At the same time, save on energy bills by lowering the temperature at night or when no one is inside the building.
Turn the thermostat back 7 to 10?F for about 8 hours a day from its normal setting. For instance, set the thermostat to 68?F during the winter while there are employees in the building. Bring it back to normal temperature when there’s no one inside.
3. Establish a Preventive Commercial HVAC Maintenance Program
A religiously-followed commercial HVAC maintenance program will reduce repair costs. At the same time, it will also boost the system’s energy efficiency.
What exactly goes into a program?
First off, regular inspection. This will help detect machine shortcomings before they even become a big problem. And the earlier you spot these issues, the sooner you can take corrective measures.
Always keep in mind that HVAC repairs often amount to unnecessary expenses. Hundreds, or even thousands, depending on the damage.
Preventing untimely repairs through maintenance is a sure way to reduce unnecessary costs. But, if the situation calls for it, hire a reputable repair company.
4. Test the System
No one, not even you, wants to stay in a frigid cold or sweltering hot environment. So, don’t wait until a tenant serves you with complaints due to a non-operating HVAC system.
Make sure to test the system often, even before the summer or the winter seasons kick in. You should always be ready for the worst, but you can reduce failures by testing in advance.
5. Boost Energy Efficiency with a Modern System
Know when it is time to replace your HVAC system. Old and worn-out systems would mean higher energy costs. Worse, they are prone to fire accidents and carbon monoxide leaks.
New HVAC systems use 30 to 50 percent less energy to perform at their peak. This should prompt you to get that upgrade as needed.
Commercial HVAC maintenance is not an easy task. But, with the right knowledge, you won’t have a problem. If you’re looking for HVAC maintenance experts, we can help. Ring us up to schedule an appointment for that much-needed heating and cooling maintenance.