What You Need To Know About HVAC System Maintenance To Optimize Efficiency

By Aleya Harris

One of the most significant responsibilities entrusted to facilities managers is the care and maintenance of the HVAC system. These systems are integral to the health and functionality of a building. Poorly maintained, inefficient HVAC systems can be extremely costly.

In a typical commercial building, the HVAC system accounts for 40% of the total energy usage. That represents a huge opportunity to save money. Regularly maintained and improved HVAC equipment lasts longer, is less likely to suffer major unexpected breakdowns, and is more cost-efficient. An added benefit is the creation of a healthier, more comfortable working environment for employees.

HVAC Maintenance Regimen

Adopting a basic maintenance regimen for your HVAC system shouldn’t be too difficult. For cooling systems, it’s best to inspect and perform preventative maintenance in the spring. Do the same for heating systems in the fall. Preventative maintenance mostly involves inspecting and cleaning components; clearing debris and obstructions; and reapplying necessary lubricants and fluids where needed.

Clean air filters alone can reduce an HVAC system’s energy consumption by as much as 15%. Air filters should be inspected every three to four weeks, and replaced every three to six months; depending on their condition and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some air filters can be cleaned before replacement is necessary.

Monitoring Your HVAC System

HVAC systems need to be carefully monitored in order to make informed, timely decisions about adjusting usage or replacing outdated components. Typically, HVAC equipment is made to last about 15 to 20 years. Replacing parts of an HVAC system can be expensive, so it’s important for facilities managers to know how long components have been in use, and whether they’re performing to standards.

Timers should be regularly checked to ensure they are running heating and cooling programs at optimal times, and reducing usage during peak hours. These days, it has become increasingly feasible to link HVAC systems to networked monitoring devices and other technologies that can automate some functions in order to maximize efficiency.

Create Energy Cost Savings

It’s easy to take an out of sight, out of mind approach to HVAC systems. They can be easy to forget about — until they start breaking down. With so much energy usage is tied up HVAC systems, facilities managers don’t have that luxury. A regular maintenance regimen and careful monitoring will let you make timely changes that add up to big energy cost savings.