How to Prevent HVAC Downtime This Summer

It’s summer, and that means the heat is on!

On top of potential maintenance issues that can arise, summer is also the time of year when your commercial HVAC system is at its highest stress levels, which can lead to unexpected breakdowns and extended downtimes. The last outcome you want to deal with as a building owner is a slew of calls from your tenants that their air conditioning isn’t working as it should.

While you might not be able to prevent all HVAC downtime, there are steps you can take to minimize potential mechanical problems and keep your system running smoothly throughout the summer months.

Common Reasons for Commercial HVAC Issues During the Summer

Here are some of the most common reasons commercial HVAC problems occur during the summer.

Your Air Filters Need to be Replaced.

Believe it or not, air filters can be one of the most overlooked parts of commercial HVAC system maintenance but are also one of the most important. Dirty or damaged air filters will reduce airflow, which means that your unit will have to work harder to cool your building. Regular checks and changes of your building’s air filters are key in maximizing the lifespan of your commercial air conditioning system.

You Need to Check Your Thermostat Settings.

You may think that setting your thermostat at a higher temperature than normal during summer months won’t make much difference, but having an overly warm indoor environment can not only cause discomfort for your tenants, but even damage your commercial HVAC system by causing condensation inside ducts or coils from excess moisture buildup.

Make sure your thermostat has been properly programmed; if not, call an HVAC professional who can make sure everything is running smoothly before any unexpected downtime occurs!You can even invest in smart building controls from Air Stream which offer the latest and greatest in HVAC technology. Smart building controls allow you to automate all aspects of your building management, meaning you can maintain comfortable indoor temperatures 24/7, as well as improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Your System’s Coils Need to be Cleaned.

Dirty evaporator coils and condenser coils are behind many of the service calls we receive at Air Stream throughout the entire year. Dirty evaporator coils prevent airflow from moving across the coil in your system, whereas clogged condenser coils result in your system working harder to bring the building’s overall temperature down. Both issues can result in unnecessary energy and repair costs, which is why the best course of action is always to be on a regular HVAC maintenance plan from Air Stream year-round.

Your Air Compressor is Defective.

One of the most common problems with commercial HVAC systems during the summer is a defective air conditioning compressor. Usually, this problem occurs when something goes awry with the refrigerant in your system. If this happens, it will cause pressure within the unit’s components to rise excessively high, which can result in damage or failure due to overpressure surges.

You’re Not on a Regular Preventative Maintenance HVAC Plan.

If you’re not on a regular preventative maintenance HVAC plan, you’re setting your building up for system failures and summer downtime. Regular maintenance is key in keeping your system clean and working efficiently, as well as catching potential mechanical issues before they result in discomfort for your tenants.

Prevent Summer HVAC Downtime with Air Stream

Summer is a great time to get outside, enjoy the weather, and go on vacation! It can also be stressful for commercial building owners, especially if your HVAC system breaks down in the middle of this busy season.

To perfect your tenant’s environment all summer long, consider hiring an air conditioner repair service that offers 24/7 emergency services, as well as regular maintenance plans for all types of heating and cooling systems.

To schedule service with Air Stream now, call (516) 747-4700.