Commercial AC Maintenance

One of the most important elements of running a business is providing a safe, comfortable place for your employees and customers. In the heat of summer, that means having a working air conditioner to provide cool air and ventilation to your building.  Even when everything is running smoothly, your commercial heating and cooling systems require routine maintenance to operate efficiently. Commercial air conditioning maintenance can save you money on your energy bill and extend the lifespan of your system. It can also prevent costly repairs and keep the system up and running during the hottest months of the year, so your employees can stay comfortable at work.¹

Monthly Maintenance

Most commercial buildings use traditional central air systems that have air filters at the supply vent. Depending on the type of air filters, they need to be changed every 1-3 months; otherwise, you risk overworking the motor and damaging the air conditioning system. Ductless systems use a different style of filter that needs to be cleaned periodically. An HVAC technician can advise you on the type of filters you should use and how often you should clean or replace them to get the best conditioned air quality and help your system operate smoothly.  You should also inspect your thermostats to see if they are calibrated correctly and operating your system as expected. If something is wrong with the thermostat, your air conditioner may be running more frequently than necessary or not cooling your building sufficiently. If your ac unit has a clog in the drainage line, it can create moisture backup in the building. Excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, as well as water damage. Check the drip pan and inspect the drain lines to make sure they are emptying correctly, and remove any obstructions that develop.²Beyond these simple steps, other regular maintenance should be performed by a certified HVAC technician. They have the tools and training required to safely work with electrical connections and refrigerant lines without damaging your air conditioning system or injuring themselves.

Hire an HVAC company for preventive maintenance

Business owners looking to save money may want to avoid hiring contractors whenever possible, but ignoring your commercial ac unit can create bigger problems. In addition to an increase in efficiency, preventative maintenance can help you avoid common mechanical issues. Commercial HVAC equipment is a significant investment, and the longer your system lasts, the more money you can save in the long run. Regular maintenance should be performed annually, ideally in the spring before peak demand. An HVAC contractor will perform the following tasks during their inspection:

Maintaining the outdoor equipment

• Inspect the coil and cabinet and clean dirt, leaves, and corrosion
• Clear drain pans and condensate lines of debris
• Inspect the condenser
• Examine and lubricate the blower fan motor and blades
• Check the control box, switches, wiring, and safety controls
• Measure the refrigerant levels and recharge as needed

Maintaining the indoor equipment

• Inspect the thermostat and calibrate or replace if necessary
• Inspect and clean the heat exchanger
• Blower assembly is checked and cleaned
• Lubricate or replace the belt
• Clean and clear the evaporator coil, drip pan, and condensate lines
• Inspect the startup system and clean the components
• Safety controls are tested
• Check and tighten the control box, wiring, and connections
• Replace or clean air filters

Ductwork inspection

Your ductwork is one of the main ways you can lose efficiency. It may become clogged and slow down your airflow or develop air leaks. It may also require new insulation to help your system cool or heat your entire commercial building. Your HVAC technician will inspect the ductwork and look for issues with your supply and return vents. They will also clear out any obstructions and make repairs as needed. They may recommend you add insulation or replace certain areas of your ductwork. In addition to your annual commercial AC maintenance, one of our top heating tips for winter is to have your heating system maintained once a year, generally in the fall. This way the shared components are maintained twice a year, so you can keep your building comfortable year-round.

HVAC support you can trust

Cooling for a commercial building can get expensive, especially when your HVAC unit isn’t working at peak efficiency. A commercial HVAC service in Santa Rosa can help you save money on your monthly bills and advise you on how to approach repairs and replacements. Simpson Sheet Metal has provided commercial and residential HVAC services for the Santa Rosa area for over 30 years. Our team will work with you to address your main concerns and tailor a commercial maintenance plan that helps you create a happy work environment for employees and a welcoming atmosphere for customers. Connect with us today to learn more about how we can help you cut costs and keep your building cozy throughout the year. Contact UsSources:

1. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner
2. https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/heating_cooling/maintenance_checklist