The air you breathe while working is very important in keeping you and your staff healthy and your business running smoothly. But when your HVAC system breaks down, it can cost you time, money, and absent staff. So, how can you avoid costly repairs to your HVAC system and concentrate on your business?
Change Your Air Filters Frequently
If you ask any HVAC expert, they will tell you to change your air filters every 30 to 90 days, depending on the filter and the age of your system. Obviously, the older the system, the more frequently you may need to change the filter. A good HEPA filter can last longer and may help to reduce costs by using less energy to run.
Clean Your Vents
While your air filter helps to prevent dust, pollen, debris, and other allergens from spreading in the air, it can get stuck in your vents. Regularly cleaning your vents can help to prevent blocks to airflow and keep your air a lot cleaner. It is also worth it to clean the outside air unit by making sure it’s clear of debris such as leaves, tree branches, etc. On your employees’ day off, you can even turn the unit off and vacuum the inside as well.
Get Your Ductwork Inspected
Another place that can get clogged up with debris is your ductwork. While this doesn’t have to be inspected and cleaned yearly, getting it checked out every 2 or 3 years is a general rule. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, you should get an inspection when “ducts are clogged with excessive amounts of dust and debris and/or particles are actually released into the home (or office) from your supply registers.” If you notice a change in airflow or many of your staff are sneezing, this could be a good indication to get your ductwork cleaned.
Invest in Technology
A smart thermostat can be programmed to raise the temperature or lower it when you and your staff are not in the office. If you forgot to program your thermostat or need to make updates when you are away from the office, there is an app that allows you to control the temperature from your smartphone.
Schedule Routine Preventative Maintenance
It is an excellent investment to schedule routine preventative maintenance. This will not only save you money in costly repairs, but it will be one less thing you will have on your plate. Most contracts give you two yearly visits and discounts on repairs. Preventative maintenance can help save time too. Having someone come out before a problem occurs saves your business from having to shut down for the day while your HVAC system is being repaired.
There are several ways to save you time and energy so you can continue to concentrate on your business. There will always be emergencies, but with the right processes and routine maintenance, HVAC repair doesn’t have to be one of them.