November 28, 2023

HVAC Dos and Don't for 2024

If you own any sort of building, you probably have an HVAC system. It’s something we certainly value, but it does sometimes go unnoticed. It’s wonderful to come in from the cold to a nice and warm welcome. It’s also amazing to walk into a nice, cool building on a hot summer day. And if your HVAC system is in your business, it leaves a welcoming impression upon your customers or clients.  

We know HVAC is not the most exciting topic. But trust us when we say that a little bit of maintenance can go a long way in preventing bigger problems down the road. And let's face it, who has time for bigger problems? So here at Rubicon, we’ve assembled some HVAC dos and don’ts to help you get the most out of your HVAC System.  

DO Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance 

First things first, make sure to schedule regular maintenance for your HVAC system from Rubicon. This means having a Rubicon HVAC professional come out and inspect your system, clean any components that need it, and make sure everything is in good working order. Not only will this keep your system running efficiently, but it can also catch any potential issues before they turn into major problems. 

Regular maintenance can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system. And who doesn't love saving a few bucks on their energy bill? Plus, a well-maintained system can also help improve the air quality in your building - no more sneezing and coughing from all that built-up dust and dirt. 

But let's not forget about the lifespan of your HVAC system. Just like anything else, it needs a little TLC to keep running smoothly. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your system, meaning you won't have to worry about replacing it as often. 

And let's face it, scheduling regular maintenance also means less stress for you. No more panicking when your AC breaks down in the middle of a heatwave (we've all been there). Plus, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your HVAC system is in tip-top shape. 

large commercial HVAC system fans

DON’T Neglect Your Ductwork 

While you may not see your ductwork on a daily basis, it's an important part of your HVAC system. If your ducts are dirty or clogged, it can affect the air flow and efficiency of your system. Have a professional clean and inspect your ductwork regularly to ensure it's in good condition. 

Your ductwork is responsible for distributing the conditioned air throughout your business. This means that if there are any issues with your ductwork, it can directly affect the comfort levels in your building.  

Additionally, your ductwork plays a vital role in maintaining good indoor air quality. If there are leaks or gaps in your ducts, dust, allergens, and other pollutants can easily enter and circulate throughout your building. 

DO Change Your Filters 

Why should you change the filters in your HVAC system? Well, for starters, dirty filters can significantly decrease the efficiency of your system. This means that it will have to work harder and use more energy to cool or heat your property. And we all know what that means - higher energy bills for you. 

But that's not the only reason to change your HVAC filters. If left unchanged, dirty filters can also lead to poor air quality in your business. This can cause allergies and respiratory problems, especially for those with existing health conditions. 

Moreover, dirty filters can also put a strain on your HVAC system, potentially causing it to break down. And let's be real, no one wants to deal with a broken HVAC system in the middle of a scorching summer or freezing winter. 

DON’T Overlook Small Repairs 

Ignoring small repairs on your HVAC system may seem like a cost-saving measure at first. After all, who wants to spend money on something that seems minor and isn't affecting their daily lives? However, ignoring those small issues can quickly lead to more significant problems down the line, which will inevitably cost you more money to fix. 

For instance, a small leak in your HVAC system may seem insignificant now, but if left unattended, it can cause water damage and mold growth, leading to costly repairs. Similarly, a strange noise coming from your unit may be annoying at first, but it could be a sign of a bigger issue that needs immediate attention before it escalates. 

By addressing small repairs promptly, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of dealing with more significant problems in the future. 

DO Keep an Eye on Your Thermostat 

Your thermostat plays a crucial role in the overall performance and efficiency of your HVAC system. It acts as the brain, receiving signals from various components and making necessary adjustments to keep your building at a comfortable temperature. If something goes wrong with your thermostat, it can directly impact the functioning of your entire HVAC system. 

But that's not all - keeping an eye on your thermostat can also save you money in the long run. A faulty or outdated thermostat can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, causing your system to work harder and use more energy than necessary. This not only increases your utility bills, but it also puts unnecessary strain on your HVAC system, potentially shortening its lifespan. 

So, make sure to regularly check and maintain your thermostat as part of your overall HVAC maintenance routine. Clean the unit, replace the batteries and check for any signs of wear and tear. And don't forget to upgrade to a smart thermostat if you haven't already - not only will it make your life easier with its programmable features, but it can also help optimize your HVAC system's performance and save you money on energy costs. 

DON’T Forget to clean the outdoor unit 

It's easy to forget about something that is outside and out of sight. However, neglecting this important task can have a big impact on the efficiency and performance of your HVAC system. So why should you remember to clean your outdoor unit? Well, I'll give you a few good reasons. 

First and foremost, a dirty outdoor unit can lead to reduced airflow. This means that your HVAC system will have to work harder and use more energy to heat or cool your business. Not only does this result in higher energy bills, but it also puts unnecessary strain on your system, potentially shortening its lifespan. 

Another reason to clean your outdoor unit is to prevent dust and debris from building up inside. This buildup can clog the fins and coils of your unit, making it less effective at transferring heat or cool air. This can lead to uneven temperatures throughout your building and an overall decrease in comfort. 

But wait, there's more! Cleaning your outdoor unit can also help prevent mold and mildew growth. If moisture gets trapped inside your unit, it creates the perfect environment for these pesky fungi to thrive. Not only is this a health hazard, but it can also cause unpleasant odors to circulate throughout your building. 

Conclusion 

Now that we’ve gone over several things that you can do, it’s time for you to take action! Most of these things can be planned and done within a few days to a week. There’s no reason to forget about your HVAC system. Take action today and keep your HVAC system running in tip-top shape.  

Rubicon