Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Saves Energy Expenses, Lowers Overhead

When a customer walks into a business in Florida and the cool, refreshing, air-conditioned climate that typically greets them is non-existent, a negative impression is immediately created.  Humidity prompts perspiration to appear on their brow as they make an uncomfortable attempt to discuss the reason for their visit with a sweaty, not-so-enthusiastic salesperson; or the customer chooses to bolt from the establishment in an effort to cool-off in their air-conditioned car, with no promise or indication they will return.

The importance of commercial air conditioning in Florida cannot be overstated.  Our climate is notably warm, even in the winter months, so these heavy-duty air conditioning systems are cranking the majority of the year. Keep your business, employees, and customers cool year-round while saving energy costs by scheduling regular maintenance for your HVAC system twice annually.

Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Saves Business Owners Money

A business’ overhead expenses are of great concern to most business owners. If overhead costs exceed revenue, the likelihood a business will fail increases exponentially. Since lights and air conditioning use the most power, it makes sense to be as energy-efficient as possible to keep those costs down.

An air conditioning system that is working harder, not smarter, could significantly jack-up a commercial power bill, because these systems are typically larger and more powerful than residential air conditioning systems.  With regular commercial air conditioning maintenance and the application of the latest technological advancements, these systems will work more efficiently resulting in lower energy bills and improved longevity.

Commercial Air Conditioning Maintenance Checklist

According to HVAC.com, “Not all businesses require the same needs from their HVAC systems. Customized commercial HVAC maintenance plans may be offered by your preferred company (Proficient Air), which will provide the specific care your system needs to boost performance. Facility managers and maintenance departments can keep commercial HVAC systems running more efficiently through regular commercial HVAC maintenance.”

Even though all air conditioning units are not the same, best practices in commercial air conditioning maintenance should include a checklist your air conditioning contractor uses as a guideline:

• Schedule commercial air conditioning maintenance in the spring and fall for cooling and heating needs, respectively.
• It is recommended that commercial a/c maintenance be performed by a reputable commercial HVAC technician, like those employed by Proficient Air.
• Preventative maintenance is essentially a tune-up for the HVAC system, helping it operate more efficiently year-round.
• Steps may be necessary to correct existing issues and prevent future performance problems, including breakdowns. These steps generally include the following:

For outdoor components:

• • Coil and cabinet are inspected and cleaned
  • Drain pans and condensate lines are cleared of obstructions
  • Compressor is inspected
  • Fan motor and blades are inspected and lubricated
  • Control box, switches, wiring, and safety controls are inspected
  • Refrigerant level is measured and recharged if necessary

For indoor components:

• • Blower assembly is checked and cleaned
  • Belts are lubricated or replaced
  • Combustion blower housing is cleaned
  • Evaporator coil, drip pan, and condensate lines are cleaned and cleared
  • Burner assembly is inspected and cleaned
  • Ignition system is cleaned
  • Safety controls are tested
  • Heat exchanger is inspected
  • Flue system is checked for dislocations and wear
  • Control box, wiring, and connections are checked and tightened
  • Air filter is replaced or cleaned
  • Duct system is checked

Check and Change Air Filters

• • • Air filters should be inspected every three to four weeks to ensure the filter has not become clogged with debris.
    • Changing of air filters should be performed every three to six months, per the manufacturer’s recommendation, or as needed.
    • Maintenance staff should stay on top of air filter checks and changes, as restricted airflow through the HVAC systems hinders performance and increases energy consumption. During periods of heavy use, it may be necessary to replace filters more frequently.
    • Running your commercial HVAC systems with clean air filters can lower energy consumption by up to 15%.

Program Thermostats 

• • • Perform at the beginning of the heating season and cooling season, and when temperatures hit the point of not using the systems regularly.
    • When it’s time to switch from one HVAC system to the next, or it’s time to not run it so frequently, it’s time to check the programming on your building’s thermostats to ensure settings are optimal for energy savings. Do this by manually programming your thermostats or through your building automation system; even if you’ve programmed heating and cooling schedules in the past, it’s still smart to recheck to make sure they still fit your needs and the same areas are still in regular use. 

Periodic System Checks

• • • Perform these monthly, or as needed.
    • Check the thermostat operation. If your thermostats are not operating correctly throughout the season, your HVAC systems could be running more frequently than necessary, boosting your energy consumption. If thermostats are not working properly, have them repaired or replaced.
    • Check the drip pan and drain lines. Clogs in your HVAC systems’ drainage lines can cause moisture to back up into your building, causing mold and mildew growth as well as the potential for damage. Make sure the drip pan and drain lines are emptying correctly and remove any obstructions that develop. 

With proper commercial HVAC maintenance, your business’ air systems can operate more efficiently year-round, saving energy costs and overhead expenses, and reducing the need for costly repairs. Working with a trusted commercial HVAC professional, like Proficient Air, a custom commercial HVAC maintenance checklist for preventative care can be specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of your business’ air conditioning system.

If your commercial air conditioner is under warranty, Proficient Air honors warranty repairs on most equipment, whether we installed it or not. Many manufacturer warranties only cover parts, however, and are subject to a warranty fee. Labor may be an additional charge with warranty repairs.

Proficient Air in Palm Harbor offers a variety of commercial maintenance contracts, specifically tailored for your business.  Protect your commercial HVAC investment; keep your business, employees, and customers cool and comfy; and maintain energy efficiency year-round with Proficient Air. Call us today: 727.386.2732

Source: HVAC.com