Here in New York, Fall is finding its way into Winter fairly on schedule. And, cold weather means it’s time to heat things up, and get proactive about your HVAC system.
Depending on the coverage you choose, your service contract may include more or fewer of the services listed below. As you’ve seen in our previous posts on the subject, contractors offer a wide range of coverage options. With the help of an HVAC expert from a reputable contractor, you should have no problem constructing a plan that’s right for your budget and your building.
According to BUILDINGS Magazine, you should consider the following for proactive preventive maintenance:
- Inspect at least twice a year, with seasonal start-up and run inspections.
- Conduct seasonal preventive maintenance of chillers and boilers; industry practice is to have a qualified mechanical contractor provide services.
- For cooling towers, disassemble screens and access panels for inspection; inspect the tower fill, support structure, sump and spray nozzles, fill valve, gear box, drive coupling, fan blades and motor bearings; clean starter and cabinet; inspect wiring; check motor starter contacts for wear and proper operation; megger test the motor and log readings; and check the condition of the sump heater and contactor, and log observations.
- Pumps usually require bearing lubrication at least annually. Inspect couplings and check for leaks. Investigate unusual noises.
- Air-handling unit maintenance should include cleaning or replacing air filters at least quarterly, based on condition.
Now that you know, be sure to ask about what’s included in your preventative maintenance contract. Or, if you haven’t set one up with your vendor, now is the time. And, if you want to learn more download HVAC Preventive Maintenance Contracts: How to Find the Right One for Your HVAC Infrastructure, a free guide to evaluating HVAC contracts and vendors.
