Fall HVAC Maintenance Tips for Your Business
As fall approaches, ensuring your business’s HVAC system is ready for the seasonal shift is crucial. Proper maintenance not only keeps your environment comfortable but also helps avoid costly repairs and reduces energy consumption. Below, we’ve outlined essential tasks, separating what business owners can handle themselves and what should be left to a licensed HVAC contractor like RMS Pros.
What You, as a Business Owner, Can Do
These are simple tasks that business owners or facility managers can manage to keep the HVAC system functioning well during the colder months:
Change or Clean Air Filters
One of the easiest yet most important tasks is replacing or cleaning air filters. Clogged filters reduce airflow, strain your system, and negatively impact indoor air quality. Make sure to check and change your filters every 1-3 months, especially before switching to heating mode.
Check and Clean Ductwork
You can inspect the accessible parts of your ductwork for dust buildup and blockages. Clean vents and registers to ensure unobstructed airflow, which helps maintain good indoor air quality and efficient system performance.
Test the Thermostat
Switch your thermostat to heating mode and ensure it’s responding appropriately. If your business doesn't already use a programmable or smart thermostat, consider upgrading to save on energy costs by optimizing temperature settings around business hours.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Make sure that vents and registers aren’t blocked by furniture or other items, which can restrict airflow. Keeping the air moving freely helps maintain both temperature and air quality, preventing excess humidity or poor ventilation.
Seal Windows and Doors
Inspect windows and doors for drafts or gaps that could allow heat to escape. Sealing any cracks with weatherstripping or caulking ensures your HVAC system doesn’t have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
What a Licensed HVAC Contractor Should Check
Some tasks require the expertise of a professional to ensure they are done safely and correctly. Here’s what your HVAC contractor will do during a fall maintenance check:
1. Perform a Thorough System Inspection
A licensed contractor will perform a comprehensive HVAC system inspection, including checking all components, testing for efficiency, and diagnosing any issues before they escalate into costly repairs.
2. Inspect and Clean Heating Components
Technicians will inspect critical heating components like heat exchangers, burners, and ignition systems. Cleaning and checking for wear or damage ensures that your heating system runs safely and efficiently throughout the colder months.
3. Clean and Inspect Ductwork
While you can clean accessible vents, your contractor will inspect the full ductwork system for leaks, gaps, and excessive dust buildup. They will also clean hard-to-reach areas and repair any leaks to prevent energy loss and improve heating efficiency.
4. Test and Calibrate the Thermostat
HVAC professionals will test your thermostat for accuracy and responsiveness, ensuring your system runs efficiently. If necessary, they can install a new smart or programmable thermostat to help optimize your energy use.
5. Inspect and Insulate Pipes
Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to your HVAC system. Your contractor will inspect the system’s pipes and recommend any necessary insulation to protect them from freezing during winter.
6. Ensure Proper Ventilation and Air Quality
A technician will assess your building’s ventilation system, ensuring fresh air is circulating and exhaust systems are working properly. This prevents the buildup of moisture, mold, or contaminants, keeping indoor air quality safe and healthy.
7. Schedule a Fall HVAC Tune-Up
An HVAC contractor can provide a seasonal tune-up that includes cleaning, lubricating, and adjusting various system components. This tune-up will improve efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and extend the life of your equipment.
Keep Your Business Comfortable with Professional HVAC Maintenance
By handling some of the basic HVAC tasks yourself and scheduling a professional tune-up with RMS Pros, you can ensure your HVAC system is prepared for the colder months ahead. Addressing these issues before winter sets in will save you time, money, and ensure a comfortable environment for your business. Schedule your fall HVAC maintenance with RMS Pros today to stay ahead of the season and keep your system running smoothly!
