Maintaining Optimal Fresh Air Requirements in Commercial Buildings

Blog Maintaining Optimal Fresh Air Requirements in Commercial Buildings
A Plant Showing Fresh Air Quality In A Commercial Building - Springbank Mechanical Toronto HVAC Company

Most commercial property managers understand that the unseen aspects of their building tend to be the most important. Your HVAC system falls under this category because although your tenants can’t see if something’s wrong with the airflow or quality, they’ll definitely feel the effects.

As people begin to return to work in greater numbers and with more regularity, they will expect an enhanced level of fresh air standards to prevent the spread of dust, allergens, and – especially – viruses. COVID-19 is sure to be top of mind with many people even as we move into the post-pandemic phase, and their worry about breathing clean, virus-free air likely won’t abate for some time.

Taking the steps now to protect your indoor air quality (IAQ) will help safeguard your occupants from airborne pathogens and provide a clean, fresh air experience for everyone in the building. Having the correct amount of fresh air and filtered air will also help prevent your HVAC equipment from premature wear while lowering your energy bills at the same time.

 

Regular Preventative Maintenance Focus Areas

HVAC maintenance in tall towers, retail malls, and commercial sites is non-negotiable as it plays a large part in maintaining the health and safety of its occupants. Although we’re just coming through an unprecedented time that has transformed the way many companies do business, it’s important to remember that HVAC maintenance is an investment – not a cost – that can save you money in the long run. The more you stay on top of your system, the less you’ll be paying out in parts replacement and repairs that are, in most cases, completely avoidable.

Here are some critical focus areas to keep your HVAC system running efficiently while maintaining the freshest air possible within your site:

 

Cleaning and Replacing Air Filters To Allow For Fresh Air Flow

Looking after your air filters is a simple way to save a lot of money. If the filters get clogged with dust and other contaminants from outside, your system will use more energy than usual to keep the same amount of airflow in the building. Clogged filters can also cause potential health issues to tenants who are allergic to dust and pollen. If you’re still using MERV-8 filters, ask your HVAC service provider about upgrading to MERV-13 filters, which will help keep your recirculated indoor air cleaner.

Read More: Springbank In The News: Commercial HVAC Air Filters To Fight COVID 19

 

Cleaning Air Ducts

Sometimes the most overlooked parts of an HVAC system, ducts can be considered the “veins” of the building, providing passageways of clean, fresh air to every room. Their role in maintaining indoor air quality (IAQ) makes checking for structural damage and any potential corrosion issues vital to your system. Holes in the system can lead to wasted air and a rise in energy costs.

 

External HVAC Components

External components such as the condenser are exposed to weather elements and extreme temperatures throughout the year. Pollen, leaves, or other blockages should be removed to clear airflow into the HVAC system. Regularly scheduled maintenance will help keep things clear and unobstructed preventing strain on your fans, cooling towers, and coils.

 

Mold Prevention To Increase Fresh Air

Wherever you have a significant temperature difference in the air, there will be moisture. Excessive moisture can lead to mold growth within your HVAC system, which can present several potential health hazards to your building occupants. Ask your HVAC service team about their mold control strategies.

 

Replacing Worn Parts

Regular inspections may also uncover parts that need to be replaced sooner rather than later to prevent a system shutdown. It’s especially critical to check the heating ignition systems, heating control devices, heat exchangers, and fan belts for wear as their breakdown will affect your entire system’s performance.

Read More: Why An HVAC Inspection Should Be Part Of Your COVID 19 Return To Work Policy

 

A Do-It-All Preventative Maintenance Strategy

Commercial HVAC systems are very complicated and specialized. It’s wise to invest in a preventative maintenance program with a qualified HVAC service provider who will create a maintenance schedule that will cover all the critical aspects of your HVAC system.

These preventative maintenance programs are customizable to your building’s specific needs. However, they also reap the same results no matter the size or scope of your particular setup, including extending the life of your equipment, reducing your energy bills, and keeping everyone in your building safe and happy.

As always, you’re welcome to call us anytime to discuss how Springbank Mechanical Systems makes commercial HVAC maintenance easier, safer, and more cost-effective with a customized HVAC preventative maintenance strategy.

Gregg Little, Paul DeThomasis, and Hugo Lopes are co-owners of Springbank Mechanical Systems. You can reach them at 905-569-8990 or via email at gregg@springbank.com, paul@springbank.com, or hugo@springbank.com.

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