Category: HVAC

Improving indoor air quality is on everyone’s mind since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cleaner air leads to a reduced likelihood of spreading diseases, and not just COVID. By keeping your air clean and your ventilation system in tip-top shape, you can prevent sick building syndrome (SBS), where colds and other common illnesses spread rapidly within a building because of their presence within the air ducts. 

 

One of the newest ways to improve indoor air quality within a facility is by installing an air scrubber. This addition to your ventilation system can clean out dirt, dust, and other particles and help create cleaner air for your entire building. 

 

What does an air scrubber do?

Unlike a simple air filter, an air scrubber also releases particles in the air that can kill germs, VOCs, dust, and other indoor air contaminants within your facility. Typically, portable air scrubbers are used in office buildings to disinfect and filter the air in addition to the ventilation system. However, for offices in single-unit buildings, a whole-house air scrubber can be installed which reaches not only the air but contaminants on surfaces as well. 

 

Benefits of an air scrubber

 

• Portability – If you have recently painted or undergone construction within your building, a portable air scrubber can help filter out contaminants in the days afterward when fumes and dust are still in the air.

 

• Prevents and diminishes the effects of SBS – An air scrubber not only disinfects, but will filter the air within your building to help prevent the spread of dirt, VOCs, dust, bacteria, and viruses. If you’re experiencing sick building syndrome, they can help diminish the problem. 

 

• Puts employees and customers at ease – If your building has had an outbreak of COVID-19, or even something as simple as the flu, you can put employees at ease by bringing in an air scrubber. This simple addition to your office will help employees and customers feel safer in the midst of cold and flu season. 

 

Air scrubbers are a simple but powerfully effective solution for improving indoor air quality. To learn more about installation and usage, contact your local MaintenX team today.

As winter rolls around, you’ll be using your heater much more frequently, which means preventative care is essential at your facility. Your furnace is a potentially dangerous component of the HVAC system. Without proper safety checks in place, your furnace can have undetected gas leaks or fires that cause catastrophic damage to your facility. 

 

That is why it is essential to take care of your furnace’s flame sensor before and during the winter months. This guide will help you learn more about this all-too-important component, and how to prevent it from having issues at critical moments. 

 

What is a flame sensor?

 

The flame sensor, located inside the burner assembly, is a sensor that detects flames inside the unit. If a flame is detected, the sensor will signal to shut off the furnace entirely to prevent fires and leaks of carbon monoxide. This is one of the most critical safety components of your entire HVAC system. In older systems, a different type of flame sensor called a thermocouple is present. This serves the same purpose but uses different technology to detect flames and turn off the furnace. 

 

How to tell if your flame sensor is working properly.

 

Flame sensors can eventually stop working, especially if they are from an older system. If you have an older HVAC unit, your HVAC technician will look for these signs that your sensor may not be working anymore: 

 

• The furnace burners will turn on but shut off immediately after
• The flame sensor is covered in ash or dust (which signals it’s time for cleaning)
• The tip of the flame sensor is black
• The casing is cracked or pieces are falling off

 

Flame sensor maintenance.

 

Luckily, unless the sensor needs to be replaced, this component has a fairly simple maintenance plan. Your HVAC technician may periodically clean and test it, but otherwise, your flame sensor should last 15 to 30 years with minimal maintenance. You may have to replace it once throughout your building ownership or management, but it’s unlikely to cause you too many problems. 

 

If you haven’t had an HVAC maintenance check in a while, call MaintenX for a simple tune-up before firing up the furnace. It could save your facility from a fire or gas leak, and help you save on emergency repairs.

In Tampa, Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, we face brutally hot summers and rely on our HVAC systems for most of the year. When one stops working, HVAC technicians are our heroes! They come to the rescue to make our homes and businesses livable despite the intense summer heat, and do so without much recognition. 

 

The life of an HVAC technician is very different from your average office worker. Below are # things you probably didn’t know about your HVAC tech, and why you should be sure to thank them next time you see one: 

 

HVAC technicians are fully dedicated to their jobs. 

Most maintenance work requires technicians to work late, unpredictable hours as opposed to office work. If someone’s heater goes out in the dead of winter, they may be called early in the morning or after dark to fix it. They often work 10-12 hour days in order to earn overtime and get each job done as quickly as possible. These heroes are 100% dedicated to doing a great job with every service call. 

 

They are often in great shape. 

HVAC work is physical work, and often requires technicians to crawl into tight spaces or work outside. This means that most technicians, even as they age, stay in great shape throughout their lives. This is a unique perk that helps many technicians live long and healthy lives because of their jobs instead of in spite of their jobs. 

 

HVAC technicians make an excellent living. 

The average salary for a U.S. HVAC technician is over $75,000, which is great for a career that only requires a two-year education. Plus, technical work cannot be outsourced and isn’t as susceptible to variability during economic downturns. Air conditioning and heating are necessities, which means that even in times of economic struggle, you’ll still have a safe and stable job. 

 

The work of an HVAC repairman is always exciting and is greatly appreciated by everyone they serve. If you’re interested in starting or advancing a career in the HVAC maintenance field, contact us to learn about our open positions!

HVAC systems, like all other commercial appliances, have a limited lifespan for effectiveness. While modern energy-efficient units can last 20 years or better, most will need replacement of parts or entire units between the 10-15 year mark. While most facility managers worry they’re replacing their units too soon, there are several reasons why you should budget for an HVAC replacement as soon as your technicians suggest. 

 

Why You Should Replace Your HVAC System

Replacing an entire HVAC system can cost upward of $10,000 for even a small commercial facility or office space. However, the long-term cost benefits outweigh the initial investment for several reasons: 

 

• An older unit will expend more energy, leading to higher power bills every month
• Outdated technology limits your ability to install cost-saving options like a smart thermostat or higher quality rooftop units
• Older units are more costly to repair and need more frequent service, which will accumulate maintenance costs over time

 

By budgeting for a new HVAC in the upcoming year, you can begin saving on repair costs, while upgrading to newer technology that helps meet energy-saving goals. 

 

Signs Your HVAC System Needs To Be Replaced

If you’re unsure of when it’s time to replace your HVAC system, talk to your local MaintenX technician to determine when is the optimal time to upgrade. Some systems can be restored to their original performance with cleaning and repairs, while others are easier to replace. Below are some of the signs that your HVAC system is on its last leg and should be replaced within a year or two: 

 

Your system runs constantly

A properly functioning HVAC system should be able to maintain the temperature without running constantly. Even if you set it significantly lower or higher than the temperature outside, it should only run a few times throughout the day. If your system has to run constantly to maintain the temperature (or runs constantly and still can’t keep up), you are likely running into the end of your system’s service life. 

 

Your HVAC system makes these noises.

HVAC systems make noise occasionally, especially when they first turn on or run a cycle. However, if you notice any of these noises coming constantly from your unit or vents, it could mean signs of wear and tear: 

 

• Constant humming from the blower
• Banging noises from the furnace
• Outdoor noise before the unit is in use

 

Your repairs don’t last

If you are paying for repairs that don’t last more than a few months, you’re likely past due for an HVAC replacement. Repair services are meant to fix problems, not stall them. If your MaintenX team is constantly redoing work and your system is over 10 years old, it’s time to start thinking about replacing your units. 

 

MaintenX can help you find an HVAC system that is clean, energy-efficient, and affordable. Contact us today for the latest industry recommendations. 

Indoor air quality is a hot topic in commercial facility maintenance today. Winter is notorious for the cold and flu season, which can cause what is known in the maintenance world as “sick building syndrome.” As indoor air quality worsens, bacteria, viruses, and mold can spread through the HVAC system of a facility and cause everyone in the building to feel sick. 

 

Maintaining indoor air quality is especially important as our nation continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. The cleaner the air in your facility, the better your chances of reducing the spread of illness and. Even if your employees do not get sick from COVID-19 or another virus, these indoor air contaminants can worsen respiratory health and cause other illnesses to affect them more severely. 

 

Watch out for these common indoor air contaminants that could be causing sick building syndrome:

 

Mold 

Mold is not only a common cause of drywall damage, it can easily circulate through your vents and cause serious illness among tenants and staff. If your employees are breathing it in, they can become sick on their own or have worsening symptoms of respiratory illnesses like asthma. 

 

Chemical cleaners 

Chemicals like polyurethane, formaldehyde and other VOCs are commonly present in commercial facilities. They are either used in chemical cleaners and solvents or brought in through upholstery or furniture used in the office. Be careful where you source these materials, as overexposure to VOCs can cause long-term respiratory damage. 

 

Radon and carbon monoxide 

These colorless, odorless gases are lethal if leaking into your facility. Radon, which is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers, comes from uranium decay in soils. Carbon monoxide is also deadly if inhaled and can come from defective heaters, so be sure to test your facility for these gases and install a CO monitor to prevent injury or death. 

 

Maintaining indoor air quality not only helps keep everyone safe and healthy but creates a better atmosphere for productivity. To learn more about how you can keep your HVAC system and indoor air in the best condition, contact us today. 

In the summertime, your HVAC system is working overtime almost every day. If it is healthy and performing well, it can probably handle the added stress. However, even with a healthy HVAC system comes extra maintenance in the summer and early fall. At MaintenX, we encourage facility owners and managers to schedule time once the weather starts to cool to run a check-up on their HVAC system.

 

Before you begin scheduling repairs and preventative care services, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions about the state of your HVAC system and service over the summer: 

 

• How many emergency service calls did I have to make this summer?
• How much did I spend on emergency vs. preventative maintenance for my system?
• Were issues resolved the first time, or did my maintenance team have to work on my system repeatedly to solve the same problems?
• Is my equipment aged, overworked, or not maintained well enough to keep up with summer cooling demands? Or is it running as expected?
• Is my equipment still under warranty?

 

Once you have the answers to these questions, you can then begin working with your HVAC repair team to determine what preventative care services should be scheduled throughout the fall and winter. If you experienced several issues with your system, it could be time to start saving for a replacement. However, if your system is in good health for its age, you should consider scheduling these services to keep it in tip-top shape: 

 

• Clean air ducts and vents
• Reset thermostat to reflect cooling temperatures
• Inspect rooftop units for damage 
• Analyze energy consumption to detect performance loss over time
• Inspect electrical components
• Check refrigerant levels and look for leaks or condensation within the unit causing water damage
• Clean heating components in preparation for the winter

 

All of these tasks can be performed during your end-of-summer inspection, as well as any specific maintenance tasks recommended by your HVAC technician. If you’re ready to start prepping for fall, contact your local MaintenX today to get started!

It’s no surprise that your HVAC system is working double time in the summer. In Tampa, Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, we experience many more service calls for HVAC systems in the summer as opposed to the winter, because our winters are mild in comparison to the many months of blistering heat and high humidity on the coast. For this reason, we encourage all facility managers to invest in preventative care for their HVAC systems during this time. 

 

If your system is older or has been having issues lately, it’s important you schedule preventative maintenance with your MaintenX provider. If you are proactive with preventative maintenance, you can avoid these three common HVAC issues during the summertime:

 

An overheated capacitor

One of the most common issues with HVAC systems during the summer is having the capacitor overheat. This can happen due to overuse or simply due to sun exposure. In either instance, it can cause the entire system to slow down or shut down. If this happens, you need to contact your MaintenX technician immediately. They are not safe to replace on your own because the capacitor has electrical components that require expert handling. Contact us immediately to have a serviceman onsite to fix the issue. 

 

Refrigerant leaks

Refrigerant leaks can happen at any time of the year, but they are especially problematic in the summertime. Without proper refrigerant levels, your system will not be able to absorb warm air and cool it properly to circulate. A refrigerant leak not only leads to discomfort in the building, but can be an environmental hazard if it leaks outside. To fix this, contact your MaintenX technician to repair the leak and to top off your system with refrigerant. It’s important to fix the leak first, so you don’t have a recurring problem on your hands. 

 

Clogged filters and drain lines

Because your HVAC system is running at full capacity, it is more likely for the system to experience clogs and buildup in the drain lines and air filters. The drain lines can develop mld and mildew as the humidity rises, and the air filters often become clogged faster because your system is running at maximum capacity. This is a simple fix, but requires the help of a MaintenX technician to properly clean the drain lines and ducts for better performance. 

 

With MaintenX by your side, we can help you avoid these issues and even improve your HVAC performance with preventative maintenance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

As we gear up for the hottest months of the year, MaintenX is preparing for the busiest HVAC repair season. Typically HVAC systems get overused in the summer to beat the heat, which can cause problems if a preventative maintenance plan is not used. Many facility owners have different expectations of how their system can perform as compared to what a standard commercial HVAC unit can do. 

 

If you are having issues with your HVAC system, you may be making some assumptions that are hurting our business. Do you believe any of these common HVAC misconceptions? If so, talk to your MaintenX team for help. 

 

It’s okay for my air conditioning to run all day in the summer. 

In Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, many businesses believe that an HVAC system that runs all day is something to be expected in the summertime. However, having your air conditioning run all day is not only incredibly expensive — it is a sure sign that your system is not performing well. A system that is efficient and a facility that is well insulated should be no more difficult to cool in the summer than it is to heat in the winter. Talk to your MaintenX crew if you notice the air conditioning running all day to see if improvements can be made. 

 

An expensive machine will not break down.

We always encourage clients to upgrade to the best, most energy-efficient system they can afford when their old HVAC system reaches the end of its service life. However, that does not mean you can abandon your preventative maintenance plan once it is installed. Your system still needs preventative maintenance to keep it clean, insulated, and functioning at peak performance even in the first months after installation. Doing this will maximize the service life of your system.

 

My HVAC crew can be available within hours. 

During the summertime, it may take days to receive a crew for a service request that isn’t emergent. Even some emergencies will take several hours or overnight because of the incredible volume we receive this time of year. That is just one reason why MaintenX encourages all customers to schedule their maintenance services in advance.

 

HVAC maintenance is critical to the health and performance of your commercial facility. Don’t wait to schedule your preventative services! Call MaintenX today to learn what you can do to keep your HVAC system in good working condition all summer long. 

In our last blog, we talked about how your electrical system is the beating heart of your commercial facility. The HVAC system, on the other hand, is its lungs. An equally vital part of keeping the building alive, the HVAC system provides a comfortable environment and purifies the indoor air quality. Without a high-functioning HVAC, your building is in trouble. 

 

Your HVAC system is not only responsible for indoor air quality and comfortable temperatures. It could be responsible for up to 60% of your building’s energy use. Studies show that heating and air conditioning is the #1 source of energy consumption in both residential and commercial buildings. By creating a more sustainable HVAC system, you can put money back in your pocket while taking care of the planet at large. 

 

How To Make Your Current System More Sustainable

The first thing you should consider when creating a more sustainable HVAC system is how to improve the system you already have. You should focus on maximizing the service life of your current units, which you can do by upgrading the insulation of your ductwork and performing regular preventative maintenance.

 

An HVAC system that is under-insulated will have to work harder, and therefore use more energy, in order to perform its basic functions. Until your system is ready to be replaced, schedule regular preventative checks with your MaintenX HVAC team. This can reduce your energy bills instantly and prepare you for sustainable upgrades in the future. 

 

Energy-Efficient Upgrades

If your HVAC system is reaching the end of its service life, you should strongly consider an energy-efficient unit. These systems, though more expensive at the onset, will help you save thousands of dollars a year in energy savings. They also reduce your building’s overall environmental impact. Over time, these systems will outperform traditional HVAC units to create a more sustainable solution for your building. 

 

Ask your MaintenX team about different energy-efficient HVAC systems suitable for your building. They may even recommend a solar-powered HVAC system which can further decrease your energy bills and environmental impact. While not suitable for all buildings, a solar-powered commercial HVAC system may be the perfect solution for your eco-friendly building design. 

 

Are You Ready To Build Sustainably?

Sustainability in facility maintenance is a top priority for MaintenX. We believe that good service starts with proper planning. By taking into account the long-term health and performance of your HVAC system, you can create a safer and more sustainable place to work. 

 

To learn more about sustainable HVAC systems and upgrades, contact your local MaintenX team today!

Summertime is one of the busiest seasons for restaurants, retail outlets, and offices. However, with this influx in foot traffic, you can expect an increase in your cooling costs. Your HVAC will be working overtime to cool your large space, and that can lead to premature breakdowns if you’re not careful. 

 

MaintenX cares about your HVAC health and recommends you follow these guidelines to keep your system in peak performance. 

 

Schedule a tune-up

A tuneup is your best defense against unwanted HVAC problems in the summer. By checking your unit for minor issues and repairs, you can prevent major issues when your HVAC is working overtime. A tune-up can also help you increase your units’ performance which will help you keep up with summer demands. 

 

Clean out your air ducts and filters

One of the primary culprits of inefficient HVAC units is the air duct system. If not cleaned regularly, they can become clogged with dirt and debris and provide less cool air to your facility. This can also reduce indoor air quality which impacts the overall health of your workplace. Talk to your MaintenX technician about a cleaning schedule that is appropriate for your unit. 

 

Use fans to keep it cool 

It can be very tempting to turn the thermostat down lower and lower in an attempt to keep things cooler. However, this will lead to problems with the HVAC later on, as it will be overworked and will start to need regular repairs. Instead, utilize the fans in your office space to keep air flowing. This will help it feel cooler and also improve overall air quality. 

 

Install window treatments

You may enjoy the beautiful summer sunshine, but keeping the blinds closed will help to reduce the temperature inside the office. This can be done in rooms where natural light is not necessary. If you love natural light, try energy-efficient windows instead. These can reduce heat without sacrificing the sunshine. 

 

If you are still having issues with your HVAC system after following these steps, call your MaintenX technician for help. Your system may have a more serious problem that needs professional diagnosis and reactive maintenance care. 

 

To learn more about general HVAC maintenance and preventative care steps, contact your local MaintenX today!