If you’re like many property managers or building owners in the Tri-State area, you’ve probably got a general commercial contractor that you rely on for service at your property. For most maintenance work, this type of arrangement works perfectly. You can call your contractor for everything from plumbing issues to basic construction repairs. However, when it comes to more complex systems like your HVAC, the importance of an HVAC specialist for your building becomes obvious.There are a few key reasons why you need a specialist for these all-important components:
1. HVAC Systems Are Increasingly Complex.
When you contract with a professional to handle ongoing maintenance and repairs to your equipment, you’re dealing with experts who keep up to date with latest best practices and technology trends in the industry. HVAC systems are complex, and with increased demand for greener technology, the required frequency of routine and preventative maintenance, and the specific procedures can change. A general contractor may be unfamiliar with the latest advancements, so they are ill-equipped to make recommendations that benefit building owners and managers.
2. Commercial HVAC Service Requires Proper Licensing.
Like many similar service industries, the HVAC field requires certification for certain repairs and installations. General contractors do have licensing requirements, but usually these are not as comprehensive as the regulations which govern HVAC professionals. Therefore, a general contractor is not qualified to undertake certain procedures and shouldn’t even attempt them. In addition manufacturers’ warranties often will not cover equipment serviced by unlicensed professionals.
3. Early Diagnosis is Key to Preserving Your HVAC System.
The importance of an HVAC specialist for your building is obvious when you compare an investment in maintenance to an investment in equipment due to failure. A heating and air conditioning professional will stay on top of regular servicing and part replacement. Additionally, a trained professional may be better able to identify and diagnose issues early on, avoiding costly repairs in the future.
4. A Stocked Inventory and a Maintenance Service Agreement Mean Less Down Time.
There’s nothing like a catastrophic equipment failure or another emergency to make you realize the importance of an HVAC specialist for your building, especially if you have an ongoing service agreement with a reputable company. General contractors rarely keep a comprehensive inventory of parts and supplies, while HVAC professionals who specialize in the field maintain a full stock. Every minute counts when you’re experiencing extreme heat or cold, and businesses can suffer severely from downtime that prevents regular operations. You could be waiting days for a general contractor to order necessary parts for repairs, while an expert will usually be able to provide same-day service.
Clearly, as a building owner or manager, you’re at a disadvantage if you don’t have a service contract with an expert who is qualified to handle all aspects of your heating and refrigeration systems. If you’re interested in learning more about setting up a service agreement, download our comprehensive guide to HVAC Preventative Maintenance Contracts: How to Find the Right One for Your Infrastructure.
