Four Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Commercial HVAC System

The first day of summer may be more than a month away, but the time to inspect your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is now.

There’s nothing worse than dealing with an AC issue during the heat of the summer. But that’s not the only reason to perform a health check.

As work-from-home policies are lifted across the U.S., workers are counting on their employers to create a safe and healthy working environment. Properly maintained HVAC systems will be key to improving air quality and reducing coronavirus transmission.

Furthermore, HVAC energy consumption has a huge impact on environmental and sustainability goals. After all, space cooling accounts for about 15% of the electricity used in commercial buildings.

In recent months, employee health and sustainability have emerged as top priorities for large businesses. A high-functioning HVAC system is sure to contribute to your success in both arenas.

Here are some tips for keeping your HVAC system in optimal condition.

Perform Regular Maintenance

It seems obvious, but the importance of regular HVAC maintenance cannot be stressed enough. Planned maintenance will help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and the costs associated with downtime and repairs. In fact, taking a proactive approach can reduce your HVAC maintenance costs by up to 40%. We recommend checking your system for properly functioning, energy-efficient service at least once a year (and performing any ad-hoc repairs immediately).

Check the Ductwork

The Department of Energy estimates that between 25 and 40 percent of the air that flows through your HVAC system is lost to leaky ductwork. Sealing your heating and cooling ducts is another great way to cut costs and maximize efficiency. Focus first on the unprotected areas of your facility, such as understructure and storage spaces.

Install Programmable Thermostats

With such a large facility to account for, it’s imperative that you stay in complete control of your HVAC system. Programmable thermostats allow you to remotely regulate temperature, track activity, and monitor energy costs. Not to mention, they can be used to set temperatures higher or lower depending on the season and building usage, which can save you hundreds of dollars every year.

Work with the Experts

If you’re not working with a qualified HVAC professional, then you’re missing out on valuable know-how and expertise. An HVAC expert will be able to offer advice on what size unit to purchase, how to properly seal your ductwork, and the best way to program your thermostat. Most importantly, they will implement a maintenance schedule that meets the needs of your business.