HVAC commercial maintenance is crucial for the success of any commercial building and business. Regular upkeep impacts the efficiency of the HVAC system, expands the system’s lifecycle, and can reduce costs, all while creating a more sustainable, healthier environment for the building’s occupants.
Unlocking the Benefits of Commercial HVAC Maintenance
Legal and regulatory guidelines dictate the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems in commercial buildings. However, progressive-thinking property owners, business owners, and managers go beyond mere requirements. They view HVAC maintenance as an investment in the operational efficiency and well-being of the building’s occupants.
Improving System Efficiency and Energy Savings
Regularly maintaining HVAC systems enhances their efficiency. The better maintained the HVAC system, the more efficiently it utilizes or converts energy into heating or cooling power. This reduces utility bills and the environmental impact of the building.
Minimizing Repair Costs While Extending the Equipment’s Lifecycle
During preventive maintenance, HVAC technicians identify and fix minor issues before they escalate into major problems requiring expensive repairs or replacements. Regular maintenance checks remind building owners of the importance of extending the system’s lifespan, sometimes allowing it to function well beyond its normal operational life.
Keeping Building Occupants Relaxed and Comfortable
Indoor air quality is crucial in a commercial setting. Poor air quality can negatively impact the health of hundreds or thousands of people. Simple tasks, such as keeping filters clean and conducting regular dust inspections, are vital for removing contaminants and maintaining clean and healthy air circulation. Additionally, regular maintenance ensures that the building’s temperature and humidity levels remain comfortable for the majority of occupants.
Reducing Failures and Downtime
HVAC system failures in commercial buildings can lead to uncomfortable conditions and disruptions in operations. Regular HVAC maintenance minimizes the chance of such failures, ensuring reliable and functional systems year-round. Maintenance requires a proactive mindset and understanding that present investments lead to long-term benefits, such as uninterrupted business operations.
Improving Regulatory Compliance
Commercial buildings must adhere to stringent regulations regarding energy use, safety, and environmental impact. Regular HVAC maintenance ensures compliance with these regulations, preventing potential legal issues, fees, and fines. It also ensures that the system is up-to-date with the latest regulatory compliance standards, demonstrating responsible stewardship of the environment and concern for the health and well-being of building occupants.
Typical Quarterly HVAC Maintenance Procedures
HVAC maintenance in a commercial setting is complex. It involves more than just keeping the system running. The goal is to optimize system performance to improve building comfort, increase energy efficiency, and prolong system longevity.
Inspect Refrigerant Levels for a Proper Refrigerant Charge
During this part of the inspection, the HVAC technician will connect gauges to the HVAC system to measure the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant. Based on the readings they gather, they can determine if the refrigerant level is correct or if it needs to be charged.
An undercharged system has a low-pressure reading, while an overcharged system has a higher-than-normal pressure reading. Both of these issues impact an HVAC system’s cooling capacity and efficiency. It’s important to remember that when it comes to HVAC systems, refrigerant is not consumed during the air conditioner’s use. The refrigerant runs on a closed circuit. So, refrigerant levels should remain constant in a properly functioning HVAC system. Any reduction or increase in refrigerant levels means a leak or filtration needs to be addressed.
Checking for Leaks in the Refrigerant Lines
Technicians will visually inspect the piping for oil residue that may indicate a leak. They will also look at the joints and test connections with an electric leak detector to identify leaks. Even the smallest leaks will need to be fixed to prevent gradual refrigerant loss. Any loss in refrigerant can have a major impact on the HVAC system’s cooling capability.
Cleaning Condenser and Evaporator Coils
Evaporator and condenser coils easily accumulate dust, debris, and dirt over time. This blocks airflow, minimizing the transfer of heat needed to make an air conditioner work. Technicians thoroughly clean the coils, carefully removing any buildup of debris. This maintenance is usually done on commercial buildings during spring in preparation for increased summer temperatures.
Review the Condition of HVAC Filters
Technicians can look at HVAC filters and clean or replace them if needed. They may be able to make recommendations on filters that are better for commercial buildings including some HEPA filters that work well in high-powered systems. The type of filter used in a commercial HVAC system and how frequently it should be replaced will vary based on factors, including daily runtime hours and air quality. Typically, these filters are checked and changed every three months.
A Review of Pulleys and Belts
Technicians can look at the condition of HVAC system belts, such as the blower belts. They should be replaced if they are damaged or show signs of wear and tear. At the same time, the technician checks the belts to make sure they have the right tension. With time, belts can stretch, so the tension may need to be adjusted to ensure that the HVAC system is working properly. With the right tension and the right alignment, HVAC technicians can prevent belts from slipping, having uneven wear, or putting unnecessary stress on bearings.
Lubrication
Motor bearings and blower components must be able to move freely as the HVAC system operates. Without lubrication, these parts can experience excessive wear. Technicians will use a predetermined amount of oil based on the bearing’s manufacturer’s instructions to keep things running smoothly. If any bearings have been damaged or are making noise, they should be replaced.
Tightening Electrical Connections
Technicians can check electrical connections connected to the HVAC system, like any loose wire nuts, connections, or terminal screws. Loose electrical connections can lead to intermittent or complete equipment failure. Periodic inspections can prevent serious issues.
Entrust Inspections to Skilled HVAC Technicians
Maintaining a commercial HVAC system is not a do-it-yourself project. It requires skilled technicians with proper knowledge and an understanding of HVAC engineering principles. As digital controls of HVAC systems become more complex, the importance of trained technicians becomes even more critical. These technicians possess the specialized knowledge necessary to service such systems effectively.
HVAC technicians hold certifications and possess years of hands-on experience, enabling them to be proficient troubleshooters capable of swiftly identifying and addressing any issues with HVAC systems. They are adept at diagnosing and repairing complex control circuits, analyzing system data trends, interpreting electrical diagrams, and optimizing the efficiency and performance of HVAC systems.
Their expertise includes identifying and rectifying refrigerant issues, troubleshooting compressor operation problems, and recommending whether to repair or replace an HVAC unit. Overall, trained HVAC technicians play a vital role in ensuring commercial HVAC systems’ proper functioning and longevity.
The HVAC Professionals Servicing Nashua, NH, and the Surrounding Area
At Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc., we are a family business committed to the values of transparency, honesty, and affordability. We serve residential and commercial clients and are proud to offer a variety of services to improve the functioning of your HVAC system. We are a Better Business Bureau-accredited business and have received various awards thanking us for our commitment to excellence.
Our services include HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair. We offer high-velocity HVAC, Wi-Fi thermostats, oil-to-gas conversions, tankless water heaters, and ductless HVAC. Contact Joyce Cooling & Heating Inc. today and learn why you should trust us to keep your home or business comfortable and energy efficient.
