The HVAC system in your building might be the last thing on your mind when you’re running a business. But if that HVAC system breaks down or otherwise works inefficiently, it becomes immediately noticeable in utility bill spikes, costly repairs, and unpleasant or even unsafe conditions. A regularly scheduled commercial HVAC maintenance plan can help keep your commercial property’s HVAC system running smoothly and safely, so you can focus on what’s important.
Key Takeaways
- Preventive maintenance can extend the life of commercial HVAC equipment, reducing the odds of costly repairs, utility bill spikes, and system failure.
- Professional HVAC technicians are bonded, licensed, and insured, helping property owners stay in full compliance of local laws, regulations, and manufacturer warranties.
- Common HVAC maintenance tasks include air filter replacements, clearing drain pans, inspecting ductwork, cleaning evaporator and condenser coils, and checking heat exchangers.
- St. Louis, Missouri, experiences extreme summer and winter weather conditions, making it important to service different aspects of HVAC equipment (i.e., the AC or furnace) in different seasons for optimal performance and comfort.
At a Glance: Commercial HVAC Maintenance Plan
While each commercial HVAC maintenance agreement will look a little different, many service contracts include the following.
Monthly Maintenance Tasks
- Check air filter
- Inspect thermostats
- Clear condensate drain pans
- Clear debris
Quarterly Maintenance Tasks
- Filter replacement
- Part lubrication
- Electrical connection inspection
- Ductwork inspection
Biannual/Twice-annual Maintenance Tasks
- Test safety controls
- Review refrigerant levels
- Adjust belts and pulleys
- Test heating and cooling systems
Annual Maintenance Tasks
- Clean condenser coils
- Clean evaporator coils
- Clean blower assembly
- Check heat exchangers
- Configurate building-wide system controls
- Ensure full system compliance
What Does a Professional Commercial Maintenance Visit Entail?
Hiring professional HVAC technicians for commercial maintenance services? Here’s an overview of what you can expect when working with Future Aire.
Comprehensive Inspection Checklist
Your technician should arrive with a comprehensive checklist of maintenance items that includes standard tasks as well as specific line items that address any potential concerns you have.
The Technician Provides a List of Solutions (If Relevant)
The technician should document what they find during their visit, then provide you a copy of their findings. This report may include recommendations for system upgrades or repairs, or if any damage was found and could not be easily fixed on the spot.
Setting Up the Next Appointment
Finally, the technician should work with you to create a payment plan and set up your next appointment, so you never miss any seasonal maintenance tasks.
Is a Maintenance Plan a Worthwhile Investment for Commercial Properties?
At Future Aire, we believe that HVAC maintenance plans are a smart investment for commercial properties. Here’s why.
Predictable Budgeting vs Emergency Repairs
Running a business means careful attention to budgets. Maintenance plans offer predictable budgeting while reducing the odds of costly emergency repairs that can affect your company’s bottom line.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Equipment
Even the best commercial HVAC systems won’t last forever. But you can improve their longevity (and safety and efficiency) with regular preventive maintenance.
The "Priority Service" Advantage
Many HVAC companies prioritize current clients over new ones; by enrolling in a regular maintenance plan, you may get timelier responses if emergency breakdowns occur.
Warning Signs Your System Needs Immediate Attention
Signs that your HVAC system needs attention include:
- Inconsistent temperatures
- Inconsistent airflow
- Spiking energy costs
- Unusual sounds
- Frequent cycling
- Persistent odors
- Delayed startups
- Noticeable drops in indoor air quality
Notice any of these signs? Give us a call.
How to Choose the Right HVAC Maintenance Company
Experience
When the efficiency and safety of your building is at risk, you need someone who knows what they’re doing, so your system can get back to working order right away.
At Future Aire, we have decades of experience servicing all makes and models of commercial HVAC equipment in the St. Louis area. That hyperlocal knowledge means we can diagnose common (and not-so-common) issues and fix them in a timely manner.
Certifications
Experience is best complemented with certifications, giving you added peace of mind that your system is in good hands. Key certifications to look for in commercial HVAC contractors include the EPA 608 Certification and NATE (North American Technician Excellence).
At Future Aire, all of our fully licensed and insured technicians have both of these certifications (and a long list of accolades) to further prove our commitment to delivering excellent results.
Response Times and Emergency Availability
HVAC systems ensure your building isn’t just comfortable, but safe. And when safety is on the line, long response times just don’t cut it.
At Future Aire, we offer 24-hour dispatch services, because we know that breakdowns don’t always happen during standard business hours.
Transparent Pricing
Predictable, transparent pricing makes budgeting easier for you, creating one less hassle for your business. That’s why it pays to find a company that is clear about pricing details.
At Future Aire, we are upfront about our pricing and offer free quotes on our services. No hidden fees. No fine print. Just honest, reliable workmanship and fair pricing.
Custom Maintenance Schedules
The type of HVAC equipment you have, the brand, and the system’s age—all these little details make your system unique. Sometimes, a standard maintenance schedule is insufficient to meet your system’s needs.
Future Aire technicians can work with you to find a maintenance schedule that works with your goals and system requirements.
Securing Your Peace of Mind Today
Commercial HVAC maintenance plans are an investment in your building’s safety and efficiency. If you’re in the St. Louis area, invest in your HVAC system with preventive maintenance services with Future Aire, your hometown heating and cooling specialist.
FAQs
What is commercial HVAC preventive maintenance?
Commercial HVAC preventive maintenance is maintenance for commercial HVAC systems, designed to help prevent potential issues. Most preventive plans include items like filter changes and thermostat configuration to ensure the system is working at peak efficiency.
Is professional HVAC maintenance worth it?
The safety of your building isn’t something worth DIY-ing. A fully licensed, bonded, and insured HVAC technician, like those on the Future Aire team, can mean:
- Scaling solutions that allow you to upgrade your building at maximum system efficiency
- Compliance with local building codes and regulations
- Documented service history for insurance and warranties
- Improved energy efficiency means greater energy savings
- Priority scheduling if an issue arises
Do heating systems and cooling systems need different preventative maintenance?
Yes, heating and cooling systems sometimes need different maintenance tasks at different times. At Future Aire, we often recommend routine maintenance in the spring for cooling systems and in the fall for heating systems.
How can commercial building owners save money long-term with maintenance?
Regular HVAC maintenance plans can more than pay for themselves, as they can help commercial property owners:
- Reduce utility bill spikes from inefficient energy use
- Reduce the odds of costly repairs and breakdowns
- Stay in compliance with local codes, insurance, and warranties
What does commercial HVAC maintenance include?
Depending on the system, specific items may include:
- Changing air filters
- Cleaning condensate drains and lines
- Changing condensate and evaporator coils
- Calibrating building-wide systems
- Sealing air ducts
- Checking refrigerant levels
