Business owners are great multitaskers. They oversee planning, strategy, finance, human resources, and a million little things it takes to run a company. With all of those irons on the fire, it’s easy to forget about the unsung hero of your workspace – the HVAC system.

The air conditioning system is easy to overlook; if it is doing its job properly, you probably don’t notice it. But the AC system cannot and should not be ignored, as small issues can quickly become large problems. Thankfully, many issues can be avoided with preventive HVAC maintenance.

If you’re unsure if your HVAC is being properly cared for, ask yourself the following questions.

When did you last change your air filter?

When it comes to HVAC maintenance, changing air filters is the bare minimum of tasks. Businesses should keep to a strict schedule of when the HVAC air filters are replaced.

How often you change your commercial AC air filter depends on the type of business you operate.

• Filters that serve dry, clean commercial settings such as office buildings can typically last up to 4 months.
• Factories, restaurants, or auto shops, or any business using heavy machinery or oil, should change filters at least every 2 months.
• Businesses producing dust or pet dander, such as workshops or veterinary clinics, need to change air filters every month.

Do you have a staff member dedicated to HVAC management?

Unless you operate a large facility – like hospitals, warehouses, schools, or large retail spaces – you probably do not have a system for facilities management. A facilities management employee or team takes care of the physical environment of your business, such as the janitorial duties, landscaping, and HVAC maintenance.

Most small to midsize businesses do not have the financial ability to hire an employee dedicated to facility and HVAC management. Instead, they depend on staff members to keep track of HVAC maintenance on top of their regular job responsibilities. This added responsibility usually leads to AC systems being overlooked or forgotten due to higher job priorities.

Do you know the details of your HVAC’s warranty?

Keeping track of your HVAC warranty requirements is an essential aspect of the system’s upkeep. Most HVAC warranties require that the unit be registered, properly installed, and regularly maintained by a certified HVAC technician.

If your unit fails while covered under warranty and you cannot provide proof of regular maintenance, the manufacturer could deny your claim. Keeping up with and documenting regular maintenance can prevent small AC issues from becoming expensive repairs.

Has your HVAC unit been serviced recently?

Air conditioning units should be serviced at least twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. Regularly scheduled preventive maintenance will keep your system running efficiently and can prevent costly system breakdowns.

During the maintenance visit, the AC technician will inspect the unit to ensure it is working properly. This includes testing all electrical components, measuring refrigerant levels, cleaning the condenser and coils, and changing the air filter.

Do you have a plan in place for HVAC emergencies?

If you show up to work one day and the entire building is hot and muggy, what will you do? Employees cannot work in a sweltering office, and customers will not stay long enough to complete a purchase. In addition to the cost of fixing the broken AC, your business is also losing employee productivity and customer sales.

Enrolling in a preventive maintenance agreement gives you top priority for emergency and after-hours calls. You may also be entitled to discounts on certain repairs outside the scope of the maintenance agreement.

Let DDI Southeast maintain your commercial HVAC system!

If you answered “no” or “I don’t know” to the questions above, your commercial HVAC is in danger of being overlooked and overworked. A preventive maintenance agreement with DDI Southeast will not only keep your system running smoothly, but also provides peace of mind to busy business owners. Our certified technicians keep track of all required maintenance for your unit, so you have one less thing to worry about.

Maximize the efficiency and lifespan of your system, while taking several items off your to-do list, with a customized maintenance strategy from DDI Southeast. Contact us today to get started!