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Energy efficiency is a top priority for all facility managers. It accounts for nearly 40% of your annual costs. Therefore, your energy consumption should be a serious consideration for everyone involved in the strategic planning of your building. Mapping out your energy costs at the beginning of the year is a great first step in effectively managing usage and efficiency. 

As we get closer to 2021, your facility should start planning for energy maintenance. Here are a couple of strategies to plan for and budget your energy usage: 

Account for expenses by month.

Data from the current and past years can help you determine the approximate energy usage month-by-month in comparison to your expected revenue. Depending on our location, the winter or summer months may be more costly in terms of energy usage. However, this may not coincide with your business’ busy months. By better understanding the connection between building output and energy use, you can effectively prepare for the new year. 

Plan ahead for weather changes.

In Tampa, Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, we experience a long summer season. From early April to mid-October, our clients’ HVAC systems must work hard to keep commercial facilities cool. This is also the season where hurricanes and tropical storms are a threat, which means some facilities will see increased energy costs from backup generator usage. It is important to prepare for these increased costs and invest in energy efficiency before these critical months. 

Consider service life and maintenance of current equipment.

Your annual costs aren’t just reflected in the power bill. They are also reflected in maintenance costs based on the service life and past repairs. Review your maintenance plan with a MaintenX team member to plan for equipment services, upgrades, and potential repairs. This will give you a more complete picture of your annual maintenance costs related to energy usage. 

Look for ways to save. 

This year, many businesses have been hit with financial setbacks. While it may feel as if you’re still in “survival” mode, it is still a good idea to think about cost-saving for the future. Energy-efficient HVAC systems, plumbing upgrades, and renewable energy sources can all contribute to cost savings on your monthly power bill. When strategizing for 2021, energy should be at the top of your list of priorities. 

Energy-efficient buildings perform better than inefficient buildings across the board. If you are interested in maintenance and appliance installation services to save on your energy bill, contact MaintenX today!

This year, facility managers have had to combat several changes to their operational systems. From shelter-in-place orders to mandatory shutdowns, many businesses are resorting to remote work to keep their operations afloat. However, effective facility maintenance is not a simple job to handle from home. 

One element that facility managers must keep watch over is their energy costs. With a decline in physical attendance onsite, a decrease in energy costs should be reflected in your monthly expenses. However, this may not always be the case. If you have only selected employees showing up to the building, you may not have adjusted the building and maintenance protocols. This should be reviewed to maintain efficiency and performance without paying for unnecessary expenses. 

For example, you may be heating and cooling areas of your building that are no longer in use. Or, you may be paying for maintenance programs that are no longer necessary with certain facilities shut down. It is not enough to cut out the obvious expenses. These minor changes to your maintenance and operational systems will help you better manage your facility during COVID-19. 

You can do this remotely with a maintenance monitoring program. MaintenX provides all clients with remote maintenance monitoring to ensure that problems are addressed quickly. We use a work-order management system that tracks repair history and adapts to your facility’s changing needs. We look out for your building while keeping costs and visits minimal. 

That doesn’t mean that we’re diminishing service. MaintenX still believes that preventative care is the best solution for reducing maintenance costs. However, we also have empathy for our communities and business owners, and want to help you reduce your expenses as much as possible. 

Remote facility management is no easy task, but MaintenX is here to help. To learn more about our remote monitoring and preventative care services, talk to your local MaintenX team today! 

2020 has negatively impacted many businesses both financially and in morale. With so many closures, layoffs, and rapid changes affecting us all, it can be difficult to think about the future. However, the world keeps turning, and it is our responsibility as business leaders to keep moving forward with a brighter tomorrow in mind. 

The COVID-19 crisis has impacted more than just people. It has impacted our environment in both positive and negative ways. Unfortunately, many companies have put a halt to green programs as a cost-cutting measure, but at MaintenX we encourage you to think about green and hybrid technologies for other reasons. While their main benefit is to impact the planet, these technologies can also help you reduce your energy costs: 

Solar energy 

Solar energy is the green alternative that most people are aware of. Solar panels are zero-emitting and can easily be installed onto a commercial building’s rooftop or in parking lots. They are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, and have luckily reduced in price significantly. However, solar panels are only supplementary. They can reduce your conventional energy use but will not replace it entirely. Solar panels are also non-recyclable, which means if not taken care of they can create a negative impact in terms of material waste. 

Combined heat and power (CHP)

CHP energy is not a renewable energy, but rather a method for energy reduction that can help you lower your costs exponentially. By creating heat and electrical energy from a single source, it can effectively reduce emissions for your entire facility. However, unless biomass or geothermal energy is used, it is not as environmentally sustainable as solar power or other zero-emission energies. 

Electrical energy storage

Renewable energies are highly effective in helping companies to reach their environmental sustainability goals, but they are far less predictable than the use of fossil fuels. To combat this problem, energy- storage solutions are becoming more commonplace. These systems store excess electrical energy created through renewable sources, and use it in times where demand exceeds production. The energy storage system acts as a generator on days when solar panels cannot create enough energy to power the building. While these technologies will help you increase your use of renewable energy, they are still very much in the beginning stages, and can be costly to install. 

These energy technologies could put your business ahead of the game now and in the future. For more information on sustainability and green technology for commercial buildings, contact your local MaintenX team today! 

Green architecture is seeing incredible growth in the commercial sector. As more and more businesses commit to environmental sustainability, they are looking for novel ways to reduce their carbon footprint. It is important to both consumers and long-term success of the company. However, there is not one clear path for companies to follow to improve their environmental practices. They must choose individually which measures will be most effective for their long-term goals. 

Building upgrades are often the easiest ways to drastically reduce a building’s emissions. As an advocate for environmental sustainability, MaintenX encourages the use of green technologies for HVAC, plumbing, energy, and roofing. Below are just a few options to make your building more sustainable: 

Install multiple water heaters. 

This is an unconventional but highly effective energy saver for your facility. It takes a great deal of energy to heat one water heater large enough for an entire commercial facility. In addition, the energy required to move that water throughout the facility is essentially wasted. In comparison, point-of-use water heaters will reduce your energy costs exponentially. While installing multiple water heaters may seem expensive, it will immediately help you reduce your energy output. 

Use energy-efficient windows. 

In Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, we hear clients complain all the time about the high energy bill during the summer. This is not only costing you, but costing the natural environment around you. You can easily reduce your energy use from the HVAC system by installing energy-efficient windows that insulate and block the sun’s rays in the summer. This helps to keep your facility cool and your power bill low. 

Use reclaimed and recycled building materials. 

It may not be within your means to upgrade to new appliances, but you can make small adjustments by upgrading with recycled or reclaimed resources. Recycled materials can be used for roofing and some interior repairs. Or, you could collect rainwater to use for your sprinkler system to keep your outdoor area looking fresh. There are plenty of affordable ways to reduce building-related waste. 

MaintenX has many other ways to make an impact on your building maintenance. We believe that environmental sustainability starts at the ground level, and we want to help you achieve those goals with preventative care that promotes energy efficiency. To learn more about eco-friendly building installations, contact us today! 

Commercial roofing installation is more than just a one-time service. It is a long-term investment in your property,and therefore must be carefully considered. In addition to choosing the right contractor, you need to choose the right roofing material for your facility needs. This decision will impact the longevity, maintenance costs, and aesthetic of your commercial facility. 

MaintenX offers a variety of roofing installation options, including waterproofing and different shingle types for different buildings. Below are some of the most common shingle and roofing materials that we recommend for commercial buildings: 

Fiberglass shingles 

Fiberglass shingles are the most durable of asphalt shingles. They are built from a fiberglass mesh and then layered with asphalt to provide additional support and protection from the elements. The asphalt also provides a variety of color options and can reflect sunlight to keep your building cool. Fiberglass shingles are a common roofing material for both residential and commercial roofing. It is the most affordable option, but can be damaged by excessive dry heat and moisture. 

Wood shingles 

Wood shingles can either be manufactured in a factory, or hand-cut from wood blocks, making them wood “shakes.” Wood roofing is more expensive than fiberglass shingle installation because of its aesthetic appeal and increased durability. However, that durability is only guaranteed if it is treated wood. Untreated shingles and shakes can be affected by moisture and wildfire. 

Metal roofing 

Metal roofing is common in commercial applications. It comes in a variety of colors, styles, and installation methods. Some facility owners do not like the look of traditional metal roofing; they can instead purchase metal roofing to look like shingles and shakes for a more rustic appeal. Metal roofing is the longest-lasting roofing material, with a lifespan of 50+ years. However, it is one of the most expensive options. 

You can also purchase clay, terracotta, or other types of tiles, but these are most common for small commercial and residential buildings. The type of roofing material best for your facility will greatly depend on its location, the building’s age, and your facility budget. 

To learn more about roofing options and installation services, contact your local MaintenX team today! We offer roof waterproofing, installation, preventative maintenance, and so much more. 

Installing a new roof is an incredibly complex process for commercial facilities. When choosing a new roofing style, you’ll likely be consumed by pricing, colors, and installation time. However, it’s important to include the warranty protection as part of your decision. The roofing you choose now may be on your building for the next 30+ years, so having a substantial warranty is crucial. 

Talking about this with your contractor will help you set yourself up for the future. There are several types of roofing warranties you’ll want to consider: 

Manufacturer’s Warranties

The manufacturer will often provide a basic limited warranty for the cost of defective shingles. This typically only includes defects from the factory rather than damages caused by faulty installation or maintenance, and may be limited to a period of time. Because of this limited protection, you will want to look into additional warranties to protect against other damages. 

Extended Manufacturer’s Warranties

Many manufacturers will offer extended warranties for an additional cost. These warranties typically have certain requirements such as roofing protections or installation work by an approved contractor, but they can help you long-term. Oftentimes extended warranties will last the lifetime of your roofing. They may even include a warranty on the installation service. 

Workmanship Warranties

A reputable contractor will stand by their work and offer a workmanship warranty for repairs due to improper installation. These warranties typically cover the cost of replacement materials and labor in the event that a mistake was made. However, these warranties are not a fallback plan. You’ll want to choose a highly reputable contractor first, so that you never have to use their workmanship warranty in the first place. 

Depending on the type of roofing, the cost, and your plans for the future, one or each of these warranties may be the best option for you. Always talk to your roofing contractor before you begin the work to choose the right warranty for your needs. A reputable roofer will want to help you find the best policy for your facility. 

MaintenX offers roofing installation, waterproofing treatments, maintenance, and more. We guarantee the quality of our work and will help you find the right warranty for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our roofing services! 

Plumbing repairs are some of the most stressful maintenance tasks for facility managers. Oftentimes they are disruptive and expensive. Plus, plumbing can cause major issues with our water quality or access. The best way to avoid expensive and disruptive plumbing repairs is to understand the needs of your plumbing system. Preventative care will help you keep your system healthy and save you money long-term. 

Below are three hard truths every facility manager needs to know about their plumbing service: 

Leaky faucets are costing you a lot. 

A small leak can waste up to give gallons of water within 24 hours. In fact, it could be adding an additional 10% to your bill if you’re not being careful. The hard truth is that you cannot let a leaky faucet go unnoticed for more than a day or two before it starts to accumulate a significant cost. Call your MaintenX lumber as soon as you notice the problem. 

Drain cleaners are not safe for commercial facilities. 

If you have a backed-up drain at your facility, it may be tempting to pick up some Drain-O and use it like you do for your house. Unfortunately, excessive use of these chemicals will cause leaks, corrosion, and a whole host of other problems for your piping. The only true solution when a drain is backed up is professional snaking by a MaintenX plumber. 

Your janitorial staff probably shouldn’t do that repair. 

Janitorial staff are there to help maintain the appearance of your facility and do minor aesthetic repairs. However, they should not be responsible for any plumbing repair, even if it seems minor. A handyman or janitor with some experience may be able to get the job done, but they could also cause more damage that will cost you in the long run. Skip the risk and call your plumber for any repair. 

MaintenX prioritized preventative care to avoid disruptions and help you maintain a highly efficient facility. Understanding these plumbing truths, along with our expert service can help you maintain a plumbing system 365 days of the ear. For more information, contact your local MaintenX plumbing team today!

Facility managers aren’t maintenance experts. But, they have to make many critical maintenance decisions, some of which will affect the health and function of the entire building and its staff. Because of this responsibility, it’s important that facility managers understand the basics of HVAC maintenance, and the most common mistakes to avoid. 

Below are five of the most common HVAC maintenance myths we hear at MaintenX, and ways you as a facility manager can avoid being tricked by them: 

You only need to change your filters once a year. 

This myth is not only wrong, it can be dangerous if followed. Your air filters should be changed approximately every 30 days — even more if you have excessive dust, dirt, or other indoor air contaminants circulating through your vents. Failing to change your air filters regularly can negatively impact indoor air quality and lead to health problems for tenants and staff. 

The thermostat controls the temperature. 

This isn’t necessarily a myth, but most people believe that whatever temperature to which they set the thermostat is the temperature their building will be. This is only true if you have proper insulation, a high-performing HVAC system, and have no air leaks in the facility. If any of these factors is missing, your HVAC will never be able to get the building to the temperature you set the thermostat. In order to efficiently heat and cool, you must make sure everything else is in working order. 

A bigger HVAC system will cool more efficiently. 

HVAC sizing and performance is not so simple. A larger system will not necessarily cool a space more efficiently; in fact, if it is too large it will start and stop too often to maintain a consistent temperature. A system that is too big will also have trouble controlling the humidity. Instead of opting for the biggest unit available, talk to your MaintenX team to correctly size and install a unit for your facility. 

You should run your HVAC system until it gives out. 

Unfortunately, you may be spending more to maintain an out-of-date or failing HVAC system than you would replacing it. Each situation is different, which is why it’s important to receive an evaluation from an HVAC specialist. Talk to your local MaintenX team for honest advice about maintaining vs. replacing your HVAC system. 

Preventative maintenance is the best approach for HVAC systems. 

Just like with your car, you don’t want to wait until something major breaks down to get it checked out. Your HVAC technician should come to your facility regularly to check for leaks, clean components, and inform you of potential repairs down the road. This helps you to save money and avoid costly downtime due to emergency service calls. 

These five HVAC myths cost facility owners and managers greatly — don’t let it cost you! Talk to your MaintenX team to learn about proper preventative care and maintenance for your HVAC system.

Your thermostat may seem like your enemy during the summer and winter months. Drastic temperatures can make it seem as if you’re always fighting between the power bill and the comfort of your tenants. However, at MaintenX, we believe it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few simple rules to control your thermostat, you can reduce your energy bill and still keep your facility comfortable year-round. 

It’s common knowledge that the greater the difference between your indoor and outdoor temperature, the greater your energy expenses will be. The best way to reduce your energy bill, therefore, is to minimize that difference. Below are a few ways you can achieve that, without sacrificing comfort in the summer and winter months: 

Change the temperature before you leave for the night. 

Give your heater or AC a break when you close the facility by setting the temperature closer to the temperature outside. While it may be nice to step into an already cooled or heated facility, it can cost you. Just remember to set it back between 10-15 minutes before employees arrive. This is an especially great money saver if your facility is shut down for a holiday, or if part of the facility is closed for maintenance. 

Invest in a smart thermostat. 

If you don’t want to manually change the temperature every time you clock out, consider installing a smart thermostat for your facility. This type of thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature based on a set schedule. This way you can raise or lower the temperature during your closed hours or on the weekends, and keep it cool while everyone is at the office. 

Experiment with the right temp. 

When it comes to your thermostat, every degree counts. It is estimated that each degree of variation from the outdoor temperature can increase HVAC costs by 3 to 5%. While you don’t want to make your tenants or staff uncomfortable, raising or lowering the temperature by two or three degrees can substantially add up in savings over time. 

Find others ways to change the temperature. 

Your HVAC system isn’t the only thing responsible for climate control at your facility. In the summer you can use fans, blinds, and weatherstripping seals to better circulate, insulate, and block heat from your facility. In the wintertime, you can use sealants to keep heat in, use carpets, and even move employees upstairs (since heat rises) in order to maintain a comfortable work environment. 

With these strategies, there is no reason you can’t reduce your energy bill throughout the year. For more energy-saving tips, contact your local MaintenX team or visit our resource center.

Indoor air quality is a maintenance buzzword that gets tossed around quite frequently, but many facility managers don’t take it seriously. They rely on their technicians and the assumption that their ventilation system is intact to take care of indoor air quality. However, this reactive approach can cause major problems in the health and wellness of your facility and its staff. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 4.3 million people worldwide are affected by fatal complications caused from poor indoor air pollution. This number is concerning for Americans, who spend 90% of their time indoors, especially since the death rate for outdoor air pollution is much lower.  Outdoor air pollution we can see, and we hear about on the news. But indoor air pollution is the silent killer that could be putting your employees and tenants at risk. 

Heart and lung problems are the leading causes of death related to poor indoor air quality. 34% are affected by stroke; 26% develop coronary heart disease; 22% develop COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease); the rest are affected by pneumonia (12%), lung disease (6%), and other lung issues. While we think of smoking and hazardous work environments causing these serious illnesses, they can also be caused by common commercial indoor air pollutants. 

Below is a list of the top five most common indoor air pollutants, and how you as the facility manager can reduce or eliminate their effects at your facility: 

• Dust: Dust, dirt, carpet fibers, or anything else tracked in and out of your facility can cause major indoor air quality problems if your HVAC system is not maintained. Dust will clog your vents and lead to allergy flare-ups and eventually breathing problems if the problem becomes severe. The best way to prevent this is by changing your air filters and ensuring your ventilation system receives proper preventative maintenance. 
• Combustion products: Gas-powered appliances can create indoor air problems if you do not have a proper ventilation system set up for your facility. Toxic pollutants from the combustion process of water heaters, furnaces, and other appliances can cause severe health issues if inhaled. You must ensure your ventilation system is properly fitted and maintained for the purpose and use of the facility.  
• Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew are very dangerous to inhale, but can circulate throughout your HVAC system for some time before occupants start to notice symptoms. To prevent mold and mildew, you must control moisture in the HVAC system and water intrusion throughout the facility. 
• VOCs: Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are harmful byproducts commonly detected in and around commercial poundings. Pesticides, building materials, upholstry, and other materials can release VOCs in the air and cause a wealth of health problems. To prevent this, follow EPA guidelines and stay away from products that emit toxic VOCs. 

If you want to keep your facility healthy and free of indoor air pollutants, preventative maintenance is the first step. By scheduling regular cleaning and maintenance on your HVAC system, you can better protect occupants from harmful health effects of these pollutants. To learn more, contact your local MaintenX team about our HVAC services.