HVAC systems are an investment that should be looked after routinely. Learning how to maintain HVAC units to promote the lifespan of your systems is tricky if you’re not entirely sure what to look for. There are many ways to increase your office’s HVAC unit longevity, and here are some ways to get started:
Change Your Air Filters
Air filters play a significant factor in the lifespan of your HVAC unit. Air filter changes should take place three to four times a year, or once every three months. Three months is the maximum amount of time the air filter should go without being changed.
If the air filter is not changed quarterly, the unit begins to fail due to the number of dust particles and other foreign components entering the unit. These particles enter into the moving parts of the unit, such as fans, motors, and valves—this restricts airflow, creating a strain on the system and causing it to work harder than it needs to.
Actively Check for Leaks
There are two kinds of leaks your HVAC system can run into:
Water Leaks
Water leaks are caused by clogged condensate drain lines. Drain lines can clog with dirt, dust, algae, and other debris your unit has picked up. Clogged drainpipes cause your system’s drain pan to overflow. This is the most frequent cause of HVAC water leakage, particularly during the summer months when temperatures rise. Unlike refrigeration units, HVAC water leaks do not produce gas, so there is no risk of harm to anyone in the facility. However, it will continue to damage your HVAC system and can reduce its life expectancy.
Air Leaks
Air leaks are less common than water leaks, but are often noticed by looking at, feeling, or listening to the unit. They are commonly found around ill-fitting cover panels or near areas where screws are missing. Unfortunately, many air leaks occur due to insufficient manufacturing or improper HVAC installation. Contact your trusted HVAC provider for further instruction on how you can eliminate air leaks for your building’s units.
Take Note of Inflation in Utility Bills
If you notice sudden inflation in utility bills without adjusting your office’s temperature, there may be an issue with your HVAC system that is outside of your internal temperature control. Many times, an increase in energy bills is the first sign something is wrong with your HVAC unit. Save money by taking time to change your air filter or have your HVAC system serviced to check for air/water leaks.
Identify Differences in System Efficiency
Not feeling the heating or cooling working as efficiently in the office as it has in the past? It may be time to get in touch with your trusted HVAC provider for a maintenance assessment. If the air quality in the office feels like it’s lacking, it probably is. You, your employees, and your customers are your best point of judgment if the airflow of the office feels inconsistent with how it normally feels.
Schedule Routine Maintenance With Your HVAC Provider
Preventative maintenance of your HVAC systems allows technicians to identify issues in your units before they become bigger problems. At Service Unlimited, we provide various preventative commercial HVAC maintenance programs depending on your company’s needs and the size of the facility. The larger the facility, the more often the units may need to be serviced. HVAC systems should be serviced two to four times a year, typically right before the winter/summer months to prevent emergency repairs.
An HVAC unit lifespan can last up to 25 years if regularly maintained. If they are not maintained quarterly by a certified technician, the lifespan of your HVAC systems can plummet by up to 10 years.
At Service Unlimited, we believe real value comes from the endurance of your systems. Repairs cost money; maintenance pays for itself. We aim to be long-term partners for you and your company’s HVAC needs. Contact us today to maintain and lengthen the life of your HVAC units.
