With winter over and warmer weather ahead, it’s time to prep your commercial HVAC system for spring. A well-maintained system doesn’t just keep your business comfortable—it also reduces energy costs, improves air quality, and extends equipment lifespan.
For businesses, HVAC performance is crucial in maintaining a productive work environment and ensuring customers have a pleasant experience. This checklist will walk you through the essential maintenance steps to ensure your commercial HVAC system runs efficiently all season long.
1. Inspect and Replace Air Filters
Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining efficient airflow and indoor air quality in commercial spaces. Over time, they collect dust, debris, and allergens, which can restrict airflow, force the system to work harder, and increase energy costs.
- Check filters regularly – Dirty or clogged filters reduce efficiency and put unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.
- Replace filters every one to three months – The frequency depends on usage, building occupancy, and environmental factors like dust and pollen levels.
- Upgrade to high-efficiency filters – HEPA or MERV-rated filters can trap smaller particles, improve air quality, and create a healthier environment for employees and customers.
Clean air filters improve airflow, cut energy costs, and enhance air quality—an essential step in commercial HVAC maintenance.
2. Clean Air Ducts and Vents
Over the winter, dust, debris, and allergens build up in commercial HVAC ducts, reducing airflow and lowering indoor air quality. This buildup can also force your system to work harder, leading to higher energy costs and potential system strain.
- Schedule professional duct cleaning – A thorough cleaning removes dust, mold, and other contaminants, improving air quality for employees and customers.
- Check for blockages – Ensure vents and registers are free from obstructions like furniture, boxes, or dust buildup to allow proper airflow.
- Inspect ductwork for leaks – Leaky ducts can cause air loss, uneven temperatures, and inefficiency, leading to unnecessary energy waste.
Regular duct and vent maintenance boosts HVAC efficiency, improves air quality, and saves energy.
3. Check Thermostat Settings
As temperatures rise, adjusting your commercial HVAC thermostat settings is key to maintaining comfort and efficiency in your business. A properly calibrated thermostat helps regulate indoor temperatures without overworking the system, keeping energy costs under control.
- Adjust for seasonal changes – Set the thermostat to a spring-appropriate temperature that balances comfort and energy efficiency. A recommended setting for commercial spaces is 68-72°F during business hours.
- Upgrade to a smart thermostat – A programmable or smart thermostat automates temperature adjustments, reducing energy waste and optimizing HVAC performance.
- Verify accuracy – An outdated or malfunctioning thermostat can misread temperatures, causing the system to run longer than necessary. Check and recalibrate if needed.
Taking these steps ensures your commercial HVAC system runs efficiently, providing a comfortable environment for employees and customers while keeping energy costs in check.
4. Inspect Refrigerant Levels and Coils
Your commercial HVAC system relies on the right refrigerant levels and clean coils to maintain efficient cooling. Without proper maintenance, low refrigerant levels and dirty coils can lead to higher energy bills, poor performance, and costly repairs.
- Check refrigerant levels – Low refrigerant can cause the system to struggle to maintain cooling, increasing wear and tear on the compressor.
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils – Dust and grime buildup on coils reduces heat exchange efficiency, forcing the system to work harder and use more energy.
- Schedule a professional inspection – If refrigerant levels are low, it may indicate a leak that needs immediate attention to prevent system damage.
Regular maintenance of refrigerant levels and coils keeps your HVAC system operating at peak efficiency, ensuring consistent cooling and energy savings for your business.
5. Examine Electrical Components and Connections
Electrical components are the backbone of your commercial HVAC system, and any loose or damaged connections can lead to system failures, increased fire risks, and costly downtime. Regular inspections ensure safe and reliable operation.
- Check for loose or frayed wiring – Faulty electrical connections can cause power fluctuations, system inefficiencies, or even complete breakdowns.
- Inspect capacitors and relays – These components control the flow of electricity within your system, and failures can lead to startup issues or inconsistent performance.
- Examine the blower motor and belts – Worn-out belts or motor issues can reduce airflow efficiency, causing your HVAC system to work harder and increasing wear on components.
Scheduling routine electrical inspections helps prevent unexpected failures and ensures your HVAC system operates safely and efficiently throughout the season.
6. Test System Performance
Before spring temperatures rise, it’s important to test your commercial HVAC system to ensure it’s running efficiently and evenly distributing airflow throughout your building. Identifying potential issues early can prevent costly repairs and improve overall comfort for employees and customers.
- Run the system and listen for unusual noises – Strange sounds like rattling, grinding, or banging may indicate loose parts, motor issues, or airflow obstructions.
- Check for consistent airflow – Ensure that all areas of the building receive even airflow. Weak airflow could mean clogged ducts, a failing blower motor, or a blocked vent.
- Identify temperature imbalances – If some rooms feel too hot or too cold, your system may need balancing or recalibration to distribute air more effectively.
Regularly testing HVAC performance helps catch small problems before they turn into major breakdowns, keeping your commercial space comfortable and energy-efficient.
7. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection
Even with regular in-house maintenance, a professional HVAC inspection is essential to catch potential issues before they become costly problems. A trained technician can fine-tune your system for efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability.
- Catch issues early – Preventative maintenance helps identify worn components, refrigerant leaks, or electrical problems before they lead to unexpected breakdowns.
- Optimize efficiency and performance – A professional can calibrate controls, clean internal components, and ensure proper airflow, maximizing your system’s effectiveness.
- Extend system lifespan and protect warranties – Many manufacturer warranties require regular professional maintenance—keeping up with service ensures you stay compliant while extending the life of your commercial HVAC system.
Scheduling a spring HVAC inspection keeps your system running at peak performance, reducing energy costs and preventing downtime for your business.
Prepare Your HVAC System for a Smooth Spring and Summer
Proactive spring HVAC maintenance is key to keeping your business running efficiently as temperatures rise. Follow this checklist to cut energy costs, improve air quality, and prevent costly breakdowns, keeping your business comfortable.
Don’t wait until your system struggles to keep up—schedule your seasonal maintenance today. Contact Ty Construction for expert HVAC service and keep your business comfortable all year long!
