Category: Electrical

Commercial HVAC and Refrigeration Services 

The MaintenX HVAC (Heating, Venting, Air Conditioning) and Refrigeration Division has the expertise to handle all your commercial HVAC needs. As a respected member of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) you can expect prompt, professional service day or night. 

The HVAC experts from MaintenX can handle all your commercial HVAC and refrigeration needs, from design and engineering to installation, maintenance, and emergency services. It’s no wonder many Fortune 500 companies trust MaintenX to keep their HVAC systems running at peak performance and efficiency. According to the Department of Energy, businesses can cut their energy usage by up to 20% with regular HVAC equipment maintenance. 

Comprehensive HVAC and Refrigeration Services 

Air Conditioning systems require that several smaller complex components work harmoniously to keep your building cool and comfortable during spring and summer. Whether your building uses a traditional ducted system or zoned VAV (Variable Air Volume) units, the MaintenX HVAC experts can keep your condenser and evaporator coils, fans, expansion valves, and blower units running at maximum efficiency. 

MaintenX can service and install all makes and models of air-conditioning systems. 

  •  Carrier 
  • Trane 
  • Lennox 
  • York 
  • Daikin 
  • McQuay 

Commercial refrigeration systems include refrigerated display cases for fresh and frozen foods and can be found in grocery, convenience, and big box stores alike. But several other companies also rely on commercial refrigeration systems as a component of their manufacturing, storage, and transport systems, including those in the fuel, chemical, aerospace, pharmaceutical, and medical industries.  

MaintenX can service and install all makes and models of commercial refrigeration systems, including: 

  • Master-Bilt 
  • Turbo Air 
  • Trenton 
  • Heatcraft 
  • Tecumseh 
  • Hussmann 
  • Zero Zone 

Dehumidification equipment and systems are available to meet the comfort, manufacturing processes, and medical services requirements for your specific business or industry. The most common dehumidification techniques used today include. 

  •  Dehumidification via cooling or air conditioning systems 
  • Compression 
  • Solid-desiccant systems 
  • Liquid-desiccant systems 

Since excessive humidity can affect the building materials, worker comfort, and the quality of work performed at the location, humidity control is a critical design aspect for new construction and remodel projects. 

 Ice machines must be cleaned and sanitized regularly because the FDA defines ice as food. Any machine part that contacts water can develop scale, slime, mold, or mineral deposits. Condensers require regular cleaning, or the accumulated dust and dirt will reduce airflow and could lead to overheating and shorter equipment life cycles. 

 MaintenX can service and install all makes and models of commercial refrigeration systems, including:

  • Hoshizaki 
  • Manitowoc 
  • Scotsman 
  • Ice O Matic 

Disposable, reusable, and HEPA filters are a key component of any HVAC system, as they provide the front-line defense for keeping dirt, dust, and pollen from being disbursed throughout the location. And most manufacturers require regular documented filter cleaning or replacement as part of their warranty program. 

Exhaust fan systems are designed to remove excess heat (and sometimes smoke) and can be found wherever food is being cooked/prepared, such as in commercial kitchens or food processing locations. These commercial systems typically feature reusable filter elements and a grease-trap system to minimize cooking flare-ups. 

 Ventilation systems are designed to remove unwanted odors or steam from restrooms and manufacturing spaces. Most of these systems rely on direct venting to an outside air source (roof or exterior wall) for maximum efficiency. 

Portable cooling/refrigeration units allow for quick reconfiguration of large areas or public spaces to meet changing local needs created by storms, floods, and other natural disasters. And portable cooling systems are ideal for short-term events such as weddings, pop-up restaurants/boutiques, and limited-run events such as festivals, street/vendor fairs, and concerts.  

 Duct cleaning services can remove the accumulated pollen, dust, and dirt trapped within your supply and return ducting system. Using a combination of brushes, hoses, cleaning agents, and negative pressure, MaintenX will have you, your employees, and your customers breathing easier in no time.  

Preventative maintenance and repairs will reduce energy usage while maximizing the life cycle of your entire HVAC system. In addition to filters and coil cleaning, preventative maintenance can include. 

  • Component testing and service 
  • Lubrication for motors and moving parts 
  • Duct cleaning 
  • Refrigerant levels 
  • Condensation pans and drains  
  • Switch and sensor testing 
  • Damper inspections/adjustments 

 Also known as Facilities Management, the HVAC experts at MaintenX can help reduce the number of unplanned and emergency HVAC repairs for your business. 

To learn more about the commercial HVAC/R services that MaintenX can provide for your existing location and new construction and remodel projects, contact the MaintenX Commercial HVAC/R Service Team today. 

 

Hurricane Season Is Here, and MaintenX Is Here to Help

June 1 is the first day of a month that many of us associate with the start of the relaxing days of summer, but it’s also the first day of a time of the year that is one of the most important for business owners – hurricane season.

While we hope for a calm and uneventful season, which will last until Nov. 30, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), it’s crucial that we remain prepared and vigilant in the face of potential storms. Hurricane season brings with it the potential for severe weather conditions, including heavy rains, strong winds, and storm surges. By taking proactive steps now, you can minimize the impact of a hurricane on your life and your business.

Whether it’s your first time weathering the storm or you’ve grown up in a hurricane zone, understanding how to prepare for one of these catastrophic weather events can mean the difference between minor damage and major destruction for your business. And as we continually build our knowledge of hurricanes, we understand more and more just how destructive their power can be.

Consider that between 2019 and 2021, there were 56 weather and climate disasters, including hurricanes, with losses greater than $1 billion, according to NOAA, and that while Hurricane Katrina was the most expensive hurricane in recent history, with approximately $161 billion in damage, Hurricane Ian, which struck Florida and South Carolina last year, as a category 4 Atlantic hurricane, was the second-largest insured loss after Katrina, according to the reinsurer Swiss Re.

MaintenX, as one of the largest national facility maintenance and repair companies in the U.S., has a long history of helping business owners understand the risks of hurricane season, and, as we do each season, we’re here to offer our expertise as a resource in helping prepare for storms, make it safely through storms, and address any damage after storms as best as possible.

This year we’re kicking off this effort with a rundown of the most common types of commercial property damage risks from hurricanes to keep in mind as well as some of our top tips on how to prepare your business for a hurricane. We invite you to peruse them and stay tuned for more in-depth blog posts on many of these risks and tips throughout the next several months, as hurricane season reaches its peak, from mid-August and mid-October.

Most Common Types of Commercial Property Damage Caused by Hurricanes

  1. Roof damage – Water intrusion, gutter damage and metal roof panel destruction are the most common type of damage. Metal canopies can be blown away from the wind, and modified materials can similarly be torn apart.
  2. Interior damage – A powerful storm can cause doors and windows to be torn from their hinges or broken by flying debris.
  3. Structure and foundation damage – Extremely powerful wind gusts can cause a building to shift and leave cracks in the structure or foundation below.
  4. Equipment damage – It’s common for heating and air-conditioning units, appliances, and generators to be damaged.
  5. Utility damage – Infrastructure including power lines, internet connections, water systems and vital power grid components is almost always damaged after a hurricane.

Top Tips for Preparing for a Hurricane

  • Understand your property insurance – Check your policy or call your agent well in advance of hurricane season to discuss how to be prepared for a hurricane and to figure out any additional coverage you may need.
  • Put up plywood to seal off windows and doorways – This is the most practical method for protecting these openings.
  • Clean your gutters – This is particularly important during hurricane season. It allows water to flow properly and move away from a building.
  • Secure outdoor items – Anything left outside has the potential to become a missile, so it’s important to bring in or secure outdoor items, like trash cans, tables, and chairs.
  • Prepare an emergency kit – If you have to remain at or near your business, include fresh water for drinking and sanitation (one gallon per person per day), several days’ worth of non-perishable food items, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a charger for mobile devices. And don’t forget to pack extra batteries.

The key to reducing the risk of damage to your business is to begin preparing now. We hope you plan ahead using the insights here, and we hope everyone stays as safe and protected as possible this storm season.

Comprehensive Commercial Electrical Services

Over the last 40 years, the MaintenX Electrical Team has provided comprehensive commercial electrical services to our clients across the medical, restaurant, industrial, and retail industries. Whether it’s a routine inspection or an emergency, our team of commercial electrical experts is never more than a phone call or email away.

If you’re experiencing an electrical emergency, please call us now at 855-751-0075.

In addition to our 24/7 emergency electrical services, the MaintenX Electrical Division is happy to assist with your next remodel or building expansion project. From developing the scope of work to permits to installing electrical fixtures, our electrical experts are ready for your next commercial electrical project or upgrade.

Commercial Electrical Services for Your Business

Our dedicated team has worked with hundreds of small, large, and Fortune 500 companies to handle their emergency electrical needs and various electrical services.

Electrical Repairs & Installations
Even with typical usage, the components of your power management system will eventually require repairs, adjustments, or possibly even replacement. So whether you’re having problems with switches & outlets, and sub-panels or need to add additional circuits for an expansion or remodel, our team of electrical experts is standing by.

Lighting and power supply replacements
While most commercial locations rely on fluorescent and LED lighting for the office or retail space, MaintenX can also provide specialized lighting fixtures for medical, dental, and industrial applications.
• Vapor-tight fixtures for wet or dusty environments
• High and low bay light fixtures
• Explosion-proof light fixtures
• Warehouse and loading dock light fixtures
• Surgery and operating room light fixtures
And our team of power supply experts can also handle power supply problems with your existing system of transformers and converters. And if you require a specialized power supply system, such as.
• Programmable power supply
• Uninterruptible power supply
• High-voltage power supply
• Bipolar power supply
Our team of experts can answer all your questions and provide a superior upgrade or installation for your business.

LED upgrades
As a business owner looking to reduce operating costs, it’s hard to beat the monthly savings that LED light fixtures can provide. LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights don’t produce the same heat output as incandescent, fluorescent, or mercury vapor options. And with an average life cycle of 50,000 to 100,000 hours, LED lights will last up to 14 years for office or retail locations and nearly 6 years for hospitals or warehouses that operate 24/7.

Additionally, many utility companies provide rebates for energy-efficient upgrades, such as LED light fixtures.

Emergency lighting
Emergency lighting typically refers to the battery-pack fixtures that turn on when the main power supply is lost. Typically, they are positioned at workstations, equipment locations, and along the egress path towards the exits to allow workers to stop work safely and evacuate the building.
The beauty of these lights is that once installed, they automatically charge the battery whenever the light is on. And once they sense the main power is lost, they automatically switch to battery power until power is restored.

Critical outlets
Critical outlets and backup generators provide an essential safety net when the main power supply goes down for companies in the medical or data center industries. Sometimes called uninterruptible outlets, your servers and medical equipment remain functional while printers, office lighting, and HVAC systems shut down.

Building code requirements can vary slightly from one local area to another, but all critical outlets must meet Article 517 of the NEC.

Emergency generator installation and inspection
Preparing for the next significant power outage is easy with some help from the MaintenX team. After a review of your business needs for emergency power, we can assemble and store your emergency generators off-site. Then, before the big storm hits, our team will transport and distribute them across the property.

After the storm has passed and the power grid returns online, we’ll collect the generators and return them to storage after a thorough inspection.

Standby prime generator installation and inspection
Unlike the portable emergency generator, a standby prime generator installs permanently on the property. According to the NEC, four distinct types of standby generator classes exist.

Emergency systems are a legal requirement for providers whose operations are vital for human life safety, such as hospitals and medical providers. NEC Article 700.

Legally required standby systems are legally required by code and covers systems whose failure could create hazards for first responders. NEC Article 701.

Optional standby systems are not required by code but can be used to protect business systems from economic losses. NEC Article 702.

Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS) became part of the code in 2008 due to 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. If the incapacitation or destruction of your location would disrupt national security, the economy, or public health, then NEC Article 708 applies to your business.

From design and installation to periodic inspections and maintenance, the MaintenX team will keep your standby generator operating at peak performance.

All ADA required electrical compliance
Since 1990, all electrical switches and outlet heights have become standardized to provide uniform accessibility for people with disabilities. As pre-1990 buildings get remodeled, most jurisdictions require the work and sometimes adjoining areas to be brought to the current ADA requirements.
The MaintenX Electrical Team is ready to answer all your electrical service questions.

You can call us at 855-751-0075, or send us an email to get started with a quote for your next electrical maintenance needs or services.

Five Preventative Maintenance Services for Your Backup Generator

Backup generators are necessary for most businesses in Florida. In addition to facilities where they are required, such as hospitals and nursing facilities, they are also common for retail and other commercial applications due to our prevalent hurricane seasons. With any luck, you won’t need to use your backup generator over the summer. However, it is important to keep up with preventative maintenance to ensure if you do need it, your backup generator is ready.

Below are the five services your technician will perform during regular preventative maintenance tune-ups for your generator:

  • General inspection – Prior to any maintenance service, your technician will perform a general inspection to look for mechanical issues in the exhaust, fuel, air intake, and other systems. Because backup generators are not typically in use, mechanical defects may develop over time without anyone noticing. An annual inspection and frequent tune-ups are therefore necessary to ensure that when you need your generator, it is in tip-top shape.
  • Lubrication – Just like any motor, lubrication is essential to ensure proper running. Because backup generators stay dormant for most of their service life, lubrication is essential to ensure the parts do not rust or stiffen over time. Your preventative maintenance will most likely include an oil change and lubrication of essential parts.
  • Check coolant level – Just like your HVAC system, your generator needs to be inspected to ensure it has proper coolant levels. During your inspections, your technician may top off the coolant and check the radiator for mechanical problems.
  • Check air intake and fuel service – The air intake and fuel systems can develop condensation over time, and need to be drained as well as checked for mechanical errors on a regular basis.
  • Electrical safety check – Your generator’s electrical system should be tested often and fully inspected annually to detect shorts, issues with the battery, and other potential issues. Electrical issues can not only leave you stranded in the event of an outage but can be just as dangerous as electrical problems within the facility itself.

Hurricane season isn’t over yet, which means it’s time to schedule your annual generator checkup if you haven’t already. To find out when and how to set up generator maintenance soon, contact your local MaintenX office.

Electrical Requirements for ADA Compliance

ADA compliance is an essential component of commercial building design. Even for businesses that are not required to follow ADA regulations, it is wise to factor in accessibility to ensure everyone who visits your business has a positive experience. While most business owners know that entrances and exits need to be ADA compliant, there are many other elements of your building design that also fall under these regulations.

Your electrical system is one such design element that has specific ADA requirements for any building that is intended for public use. Electrical components that are required to be accessible include:

  • Light switches
  • Electrical outlets
  • Thermostats
  • Environmental controls operated on a frequent basis

These components are required to be installed in an accessible location, meaning they are positioned at a height that does not require one to reach up or down in order to use one. They should also be placed in areas without obstructions either on the floor or near the walls. An example of a non-ADA compliant installation would be an outlet that is placed on the floor (not reachable from a forward direction) or one that is installed on a wall obstructed by a wide countertop).

Some of these controls are not covered under ADA requirements. For example, if a comparable control is installed in an accessible location, then a control in an inaccessible location is allowed. You can see this in outlet and light switch placement, where multiple controls may be installed to provide access for all.

Other controls that are not required to be ADA compliant include:

  • Circuit breakers
  • Outlets dedicated to individual appliances
  • Appliance controls (such as knobs on an oven, as these are part of appliance design)

Understanding these compliance issues can help you create a better business for all. If you are redesigning your electrical system, talk to MaintenX about accessibility standards and ways to make your electrical system better for your business overall. We offer preventative care and affordable installations to businesses across the U.S.

The Best Backup Generator Brands for your Business

Choosing a backup generator for your business is an important part of designing your electrical system as a whole. The right backup generator or UPS system can help your business weather a storm, citywide power outage, or another natural disaster. If your company provides essential services such as food access, shelter, or medical care, you need to invest in a generator that can power you day or night.

MaintenX installs and provides preventative care for a variety of generator brands, but we recommend the best based on our clients’ individual needs and budgets. Below are some of the most common brands we recommend to clients for both small business and industrial needs:

Generac

Generac is the most popular generator brand for commercial applications. They offer a wide range of sizes, fuel options, and energy-efficient models to suit the need of every business and industrial site. Generac is the only brand on this list whose only focus is generators, so there’s no surprise that they provide some of the highest quality products on the market today.

Cummins

Cummins generators are focused on innovation to meet the ever-increasing demands of the commercial world. With most urban areas running 24/7, Cummins generators are made to power your business no matter what. Their signature Centrum series is also focused on energy efficiency and sustainability for the next generation of environmentally conscious generator brands.

Briggs and Straton

Briggs and Straton builds high-quality commercial generators for small businesses and office buildings. While not as large or powerful as some commercial generator brands, Briggs and Straton are ideal for the small business that wants to prepare for power outages on a reasonable budget.

Kubota

Kubota generators are top-notch backup and portable diesel generators that can be used for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. The diesel engine provides plenty of power and is guaranteed to last you for years with minimal one-side maintenance required. If you’re looking for a reliable and compact generator for your small business, Kubota is the brand for you.

To learn more about backup generator brands and proper maintenance, contact your local MaintenX team today!

How to Design a Better Retail Experience for Your Customers

For boutiques and small retailers who don’t have the support of a franchise or corporation, retail design can be a very tricky process. You must capture brand image, proper inventory, and an overall pleasant customer experience within a very small space. The more carefully you craft the customer journey, the better your retail space has a chance of surviving in your market. However, this is a difficult challenge to overcome, especially for local shops and first-time business owners.

The storefront and interior design of your retail store must be both aesthetically pleasing and functional for employees and customers. Overall, the design of the space should:

  • Maximize inventory capacity within displays
  • Reduce expenses by streamlining retail operations
  • Improve the overall customer experience while building brand image

However, in order to achieve these goals, you must think carefully about the way in which you display, order, and store your products to ensure your customer journey is well-articulated. Below are just a few ways you can transform your retail space and make it the best possible for your industry:

Use a cross-merchandising strategy

When choosing display orders and product placement, be sure to group similar items in a logical manner. For example, if you own a small clothing boutique, group by brand, clothing item, and by items that will complement each other well in an outfit. Or, if you own a music store, place your accessories near top-selling instruments to ensure each player can find exactly what they need for their instrument of choice.

Choose the right product quantity for displays. 

Product quantity should be determined not only by space but by volume of sales and aesthetics of product displays. You want your retail space to look full without being overcrowded. It’s also important to display smaller, affordable products in larger quantities to make them appealing as impromptu purchases.

Invest in lighting and daily maintenance.

Regardless of how you design them, your displays will look much better with ample lighting in a clean, sanitized space. Dirty floors or flickering, old lights will make your retail space seem outdated even if the products you sell are high-quality. By presenting a clean and inviting space, you’ll make customers feel more at home.

MaintenX helps make retail spaces even better with our preventative care and cleaning services available in 20+ states. We ensure your business is running smoothly so you can focus on what matters – your customers. To learn more about our retail maintenance services, contact your local MaintenX team today!

Hiring a Handyman vs. a Contractor For Minor Repairs

Small businesses are always looking for ways to cut costs on operations. A more efficient piece of equipment, a simpler closing process, or a cheaper repair can all help toward keeping a burgeoning business afloat. However, there are some places where cost-cutting simply isn’t the best solution.

Hiring a handyman may be tempting if your facility needs a minor repair and they’re cheaper than calling in a specialist. A friend or your home handyman may be able to cut you a deal, but will that deal cost you in the long run when the repair doesn’t last?

There are some times when cheap maintenance service is the right decision and other times when it can lead to ongoing problems at your facility. Here’s how to tell which situation you’re in:

Does the service technically require licensing?

Some services – such as roofing repair, electrical maintenance, and plumbing renovation – require licensing to be legally provided by a company. If your service typically requires some sort of license to perform, you need to hire a contractor. This is especially important for commercial facilities as not hiring the right person may lead to troubles with your own permits and licensing.

Does it require special equipment?

Contractors invest in high-quality equipment to provide service that a handyman may not have on their truck. Even if the handyman is able to complete the repair, they may put themselves at risk or not be able to complete the service properly without this needed equipment.

Does the handyman list this service on their website or brochure?

Typically, a handyman will have a list of provided services that you can select from. If the service you’re looking for is not explicitly listed, you should look for a contractor to make sure the job is done right.

Was previous work done by a licensed contractor?

If you’re having trouble with your HVAC system and a previous contractor has already done work on the unit before, you should call a licensed contractor to finish the work, especially if you think something was done wrong. A handyman may not be able to accurately diagnose problems or work on a piece of equipment that has had previous faulty service. Prevent the problem from getting worse by hiring the right help.

MaintenX helps small businesses find affordable and quality work for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing repair across the U.S. If you need work done by a specialist, contact us to connect with the best subcontractor network in the U.S.

Installing Additional Outlets? Here’s What You Need To Know

As your business grows, so will your need for technology. Many smaller commercial buildings will inevitably run into problems keeping up with increased electrical demand. By adding more wall outlets, you can create a more functional office space, but there are several considerations to make before you begin the installation. 

Below are three tips to help you make the most of your outlet installation:

Install smart outlets. 

Smart outlets use less energy, can have USB adaptations, and can even be controlled by Bluetooth for electronics like speakers and smartphones. These will be the new standard in several years, so the sooner you upgrade, the better your facility will be positioned for advancements in the future. For the modern office space, smart outlets are a must. 

Choose the right placement. 

Electrical codes specify how far apart outlets need to be, but you are allowed to place them anywhere. Make sure outlets are convenient for any place that people congregate, especially in open floor plan office spaces. Floor outlets are also a great option to ensure plugs aren’t a tripping hazard in high-foot traffic areas. 

Replace old outlets as needed. 

While you’re adding new outlets, ask your electrician about replacing old outlets and wiring that are giving you trouble. Older outlets can have issues with the electrical load of modern appliances and may not work as efficiently as new ones. They can also pose electrical hazards if the wiring is older and beginning to wear. 

MaintenX works with top electrical professionals across the country to make your building renovations as simple as possible. If you’re interested in upgrading your electrical system with new outlets or other technologies, contact us today!

Ask An Electrician: Four Most Frequently Asked Questions

Becoming a commercial electrician is one of the most difficult paths to take in the maintenance service world. These professionals must complete years of training and classes to prepare for the large scope of commercial electrical work and safety. However, those that make it are the best of the best. They can help you lower your electric bill and ensure your facility is safe and high-performing all throughout the year. 

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions our electricians receive, and what they recommend for electrical maintenance best practices: 

How can I save energy at my facility?

Most people expect the answer to these questions will be to turn off lights or unplug devices while away. However, the biggest electrical drain in commercial facilities isn’t the lighting and appliances themselves, but the continued use of outdated options. Older appliances will use more energy than modern, energy-efficient ones, and will also cost you more than it will to replace them. If you really want to save money, upgrade your lighting and appliances to the most energy-efficient options on the market. 

Do I really need a backup generator?

The answer to this question depends on the type of business you have operating in your facility. If you have a medical center, grocery store, gas station, disaster shelter, or any other facility that is essential in an emergency, the answer is absolutely yes. However, if you’re operating an office building or small retail business that can close during power or weather emergencies, you can decide for yourself whether the cost of a backup generator is greater or less than the cost to close your business during emergencies. 

What electrical work can I do myself?

Generally, we don’t recommend business owners or property managers do any of their own electric work unless they are themselves a licensed contractor. Even small jobs can compromise your business license and permits if not done properly. Plus, electrical work can be dangerous, so working on it without the proper skill can put you and your employees in danger. 

Where can I find a commercial electrician?

Most commercial electricians work with a facility maintenance company to source jobs and handle communications between them and the client. This provides you with access not only to your area’s top electricians, but plumbers, HVAC techs, roofers, and other specialists. If you’re looking for a facility maintenance team that can handle all of your commercial work, talk to a local MaintenX team. 

MaintenX works with top electricians across the country to provide you best in class service day and night. To learn more about our electrical repair and installation services, contact your local MaintenX today!