You may not think you need to prepare your HVAC system for cooler temperatures in Northbrook, IL, until you start shivering. To avoid any stress or inconvenience, you should assess your HVAC system and make the necessary updates. Here are the top five things you should consider doing to prep your commercial HVAC system for the cold weather.
Replace the HVAC Filter if Necessary
One of the most important things you need this season is a clean HVAC filter. If you have a dirty filter, it’s going to take more energy for your system to work properly. You may also have a difficult time feeling enough heat coming from your system.
Remember that you should not service your system by yourself. However, many homeowners are comfortable changing their HVAC filters. Be sure to use the filter size and MERV-rating that is recommended by your system’s manufacturer.
Insulate the Building
Another consideration is adding insulation to your building structure. When temperatures in your location drop significantly, you’ll need your system to be able to generate heat most of the time. That will require significant energy. The more insulated your building is, the less energy your HVAC is going to consume to keep everyone warm and comfortable. In turn, this will save you money on your heating bills. A professional can help you determine the level of insulation you need for your building.
Seal Any HVAC System Leaks
Leaks in ductwork can be a major issue for commercial HVAC systems, so you’ll want to make sure you have everything sealed as tightly as possible. Ductwork leaks are the most common sources of leaks and loss of heated air.
Over time, ducts tend to develop cracks, gaps or holes, leading to a loss of efficiency and increased energy consumption. Your technician should also fix any damaged insulation surrounding pipes and wires as well as air handler seals that are not fitting tightly enough around your system. This step will ensure that all of the air goes where it needs to go. If you need help with sealing up any leaks in your commercial HVAC system, a professional will be able to do it properly.
Update Your Thermostat
If you’ve not already invested in a modern thermostat, you need to do so as soon as you can. Having a programmable thermostat, for instance, can help you manage your commercial HVAC system better as it will automatically turn on the unit when it’s needed the most.
For instance, you can set the thermostat to turn on in the morning before employees arrive and off at night, when offices are empty.
Assess Your HVAC Unit and Keep Up With Maintenance
One of the most important things that you need to do is assess the general condition of your current commercial HVAC system. Is it in good working order? Does it generate enough heat when it’s needed?
If you answer no, you should call a professional and have them inspect the entire system for any potential problems you may not have noticed. On top of that, make sure that you’re keeping up with regular commercial HVAC maintenance.
Skipping commercial HVAC maintenance can lead to major problems that you’ll have to deal with sooner or later. Make sure you’re receiving all your routine checks and inspections services from a professional technician, so that you know if there’s anything wrong with it in good time. A typical maintenance service includes adding a lubricant to the fan and moving blades, cleaning filters, checking airflow through the ductwork, measuring refrigerant and in the winter checking the heat exchanger for cracks, and much more.
Although it may seem like a lot of work, preparing your HVAC unit for the cold weather is easy. All you need is a trusted company like ours to handle all the work. Contact Ireland Heating & Air Conditioning Co. today for expert commercial heating and cooling maintenance as well as repairs and installations.
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