HVAC systems and lighting are probably the largest consumers of electricity in any commercial office building. While you can implement several strategies to reduce energy costs, preventive HVAC maintenance is an easy and effective option for reducing energy consumption while improving HVAC performance, increasing unit lifespan, and improving comfort in the office. While most HVAC maintenance tasks should only be done by professionals from an air conditioning company, below are simple and straightforward maintenance tasks that anyone can do.
1.Changing Air Filters
Air filters should be in good condition to allow a free flow of air through the system. Clogged or blocked air filters can restrict airflow, which strains the system resulting in more energy consumption. Dust, dirt, debris, and small particles block air filters over time. If your office is in production, construction, or manufacturing zone, you should inspect and change your air filters frequently. Ideally, air filters should be changed before they are visibly dirty. Air conditioning experts recommend checking the filters every 90 days. However, you can do so frequently.
2.Recalibrate the System Bi-annually
For optimal performance, you should recalibrate your heating, ventilation, and conditioning system bi-annually. Recalibrating the system before winter and summer prepare it adequately for temperature changes. The focus of recalibrating is adjusting thermostat settings to reflect temperature changes.
Minor thermostat adjustments can result in significant energy and electricity bill savings. Similarly, you should recalibrate the unit to reflect changes in office occupation, shift patterns, and other changes caused by the prevailing weather conditions.
3.Clean the Evaporator and Condenser Coils
The evaporator and condenser coils come into contact with circulating air when the system is turned on. Since the circulating air isn’t filtered, it contains fungi, mold, and other pollutants, which gradually accumulate on the coils affecting their efficiency. To maintain efficiency, you should clean the evaporator and condenser coils annually. You can clean these coils using pressurized air and commercial coil cleaners.
4.Clean the Drainage Lines
Air conditioners and the furnace generate water vapor when operational. The produced moisture should be funneled outside the building to mitigate structural water damage. In most cases, the condensed vapor is deposited in the drainage lines before being channeled into the exterior collection tray.
However, over time, the collection tray attracts a plethora of microbes, like bacteria, mold, and algae, which produce organic by-products that cause system blockage. Besides, if the tray isn’t emptied regularly, the tray can overflow and cause property damage. You should check and clean the drainage lines frequently. Ensure the collection tray doesn’t overflow and the condensate flows as required.
5.Inspect the System Visually
You should also carry out a visual inspection of the system. Unfortunately, most people don’t check their systems until system failures occur. You can avoid costly fixtures and replacements by carrying out frequent visual inspections. Check the major and minor HVAC components keenly to identify signs of damage. Be on the lookout for disconnected pipes, leaking refrigerant lines, and rusks.
Endnote
While you can conduct various HVAC maintenance, some tasks should only be undertaken by professional HVAC technicians. Diagnostics, maintenance, repair, and replacements should be left to professionals. You should schedule HVAC tests before winter and summer to improve efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve office air quality.
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