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MaintenX is headquartered in Tampa, Florida, where the hot season can last seven months or more. Consequently, we are well-versed in the world of air conditioning maintenance. In Florida and in the other 12 states we proudly serve, air conditioning malfunctions are very common, especially in the summertime. Because of this, we recommend our clients invest in top-of-the-line units to prevent issues at their offices. 

While we perform preventative maintenance services for all types of units, there is one type of air conditioning system that is especially popular in the southern United States. Evaporative air conditioning systems (also known as swamp boxes, desert coolers, and wet air coolers) are an energy-efficient alternative to traditional vapor compression and refrigeration units. They are ideal for warm, wet climates, and have proven popular among our commercial clients. 

How Evaporative Air Conditioning Works

In an evaporative AC unit, hot air is transferred into a cooler, and then pushed through to the core by a powerful internal fan. The hot air passes through the core and heat is exchanged from a dry channel to a wet channel. The warm, wet air is exhausted outside the building, while cold, dry air is forced back into the building. Heat is transferred through the channels, but no moisture passes through. This means that the air becomes progressively colder but does not gain moisture.

Advantages of an Evaporative AC

Evaporative air conditioning units can be beneficial to commercial facilities in many ways. They are often less expensive to install, as well as less expensive to maintain because the only input is water. Unlike traditional units that require refrigerant, evaporative ACs only require water to function. This lack of chemical input also makes them more environmentally friendly. 

Evaporative air conditioning systems are also significantly more energy efficient. Because there is no compressor at the core, there is no influx of energy consumption when the unit is turned on. The fan and pumps require little energy in comparison to traditional AC units. This helps save costs all around. 

Disadvantages of an Evaporative AC

While evaporative AC units can lower facility energy costs significantly, they are not perfect. Because of their simpler design they are not considered as high performance as traditional HVAC units. They may not be able to lower the temperature in a large building as much as a regular unit. They are also unable to dehumidify, which in some environments can become uncomfortable for facility tenants. 

While evaporative AC units do not use dangerous chemicals, they do use a significant amount of water on a daily basis. Your energy bill will certainly go down, but you may have a slightly higher water bill as a result. Oftentimes the cost savings from lower energy consumption will make up for this expense, but each facility has different needs. 

If you’re looking into HVAC alternatives to your current unit, call MaintenX for help. We are happy to offer recommendations based on your facility needs and budget. We also perform preventative maintenance and HVAC repairs for affordable prices. Call us today to learn more! 

As a facility manager, you are well aware of the challenges of managing a multi-story building. According to the Commercial Building Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS), office buildings consume nearly one-fifth of all commercial building energy in the U.S. This equates to approximately 93 kBtu (the measurement of heat energy) per square foot of office space. Therefore, it is imperative for large multi-story facilities to take energy efficiency measures seriously if they are to cut costs and reduce environmental impact. 

At MaintenX we strive to help all clients not only save money but improve their building efficiency as a whole. In order to conserve energy in your multi-story building, here’s what we recommend: 

Conduct an energy audit on your facility. 

Before you can cut costs and improve energy efficiency, you need to understand the capacity and energy usage of your current facility. Start by reviewing your power bills from the previous year and compare them to this year’s bills. You may also want to do an audit on your equipment, appliances, and areas of the facility that consume the most energy. Review your audit with a MaintenX technician (or better yet, have us join the inspection), to find ways in which your facility could use less energy on a daily basis. 

Earn your ENERGY STAR Rating.

One of the easiest ways to improve your multi-story building’s energy efficiency is to follow the ENERGY STAR guidelines. This rating will not only help cut energy consumption by up to 35%, but it will improve property value in your facility. ENERGY STAR offers several useful tips for energy consumption from building design to equipment and appliances that conserve energy in commercial buildings. MaintenX can help you reach this level of energy efficiency with green design and appliance installation services. 

Upgrade your HVAC system.

You may not think that something as simple as replacing an old HVAC unit can cut energy costs, but it can do wonders in reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint. HVAC units consume nearly half of a commercial building’s energy. Finding an energy-efficient unit or alternative such as a heat pump can save you thousands of dollars over time.  

Improve your lighting system and fixtures. 

While heating and air conditioning consume nearly 50% of energy, lighting in your building will eat up another 25 – 30% if you’re not diligent. One way to reduce this energy usage is by installing a smart lighting system. Motion-sensor lights, as well as scheduled lighting systems, can help you cut costs. You’ll no longer have to rely on tenants and employees to turn off the lights and save energy when the technology is in place to do so automatically. 

Give MaintenX a call. 

Keeping up with your maintenance schedule is one of the biggest things you can do to extend the life of your facility equipment. Preventative and predictive maintenance services will ensure your equipment runs at peak efficiency. Have a MaintenX technician visit monthly to perform an HVAC tune up, inspect ducts and piping, clean air filters, and perform other predictive maintenance tasks on facility equipment. A little TLC can help your multi-story building reduce energy consumption and create a better working environment for your staff. 

If you’re interested in learning more about energy efficiency for your multi-story building, contact your MaintenX technician today. 

Have you noticed significant changes in your facility’s air quality and temperature control? Perhaps you’ve noticed your power bills continue to climb every month, or that you can’t get to a comfortable temperature without blasting the AC all day. With any luck, your HVAC unit simply needs a maintenance tune-up or a simple repair. However, there could be a more serious underlying problem that us rendering your unit unusable. The only way to find out is to call your MaintenX technician for a consult. 

Before you decide to repair or replace your unit, talk to an experienced professional about your options. A more expensive repair could delay the cost of replacement for another five or ten years. However, a replacement now could mean energy savings sooner. Consider these factors before deciding which route to take HVAC unit:

Is your current system a safety risk?

Safety always comes first. You may not realize it, but your failing HVAC unit could pose risks to your tenants and staff if not replaced. Some issues with units can cause carbon monoxide leaks or fire hazards. If your technician believes your HVAC unit is at risk for either of these, make it first priority to replace the entire system. 

How old is your system?

On average, HVAC units can last between 10 to 15 years if well maintained. Some may even last 20 years if they are used for facilities with lower heating and cooling demands. If your system is reaching the end of its life and is having significant issues, it could be time to investigate in an upgrade. Repairing a system that won’t last another few years will only come out of your budget for when you want a nicer, energy-efficient unit. 

How many repairs are you paying for?

If your HVAC unit only needs minor repairs a couple of times a year, it is probably still in good shape. However, if you notice that your maintenance budget for the unit is slowly (or rapidly) starting to increase, it may be time to simply replace the unit. Frequent repairs are usually a sign of a failing system. Save your money for a modern energy-efficient alternative rather than fixing one that’s on its way out. 

Is your system meeting efficiency standards?

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is a measurement of energy efficiency for heat pumps and HVAC units. This rating helps determine whether or not a system is up to par with industry stands of today. The SEER results show that HVAC systems manufactured just 10 years ago are up to 50% less efficient than ones manufactured today. If you’re looking for new energy efficiency upgrades for your facility, your HVAC unit could be a great place to start. 

Is the temperature out of control?

If you’re having trouble maintaining a stable temperature, there could be several simple fixes to extend the life of your current unit. Your coils may need cleaning, or your air filter may be clogged with dirt and dust. These fixes are very simple and can be done with one maintenance visit from MaintenX. However, if your uneven temperature is coupled with a loud sound coming from the outdoor unit, it could mean your motor is starting to fail. Depending on the severity of the issue, your unit may need to be replaced. 

Is your facility too humid? 

In Tampa, Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, we face our fair share of humidity-related maintenance problems with all clients. If you notice an increase in humidity levels inside your facility, you may need to schedule a repair in the ductwork. In many cases, this is a simple problem to fix, but you’ll need to contact your MaintenX technician to diagnose the ductwork issue. 

The good news is that in either situation, MaintenX has you covered. We are always happy to visit your facility, offer a maintenance diagnosis, and hopefully fix the problem on the spot. However, if replacement is the route you decide to take, we will offer recommendations for energy-efficient HVAC units and quote you on installation services. No matter what, MaintenX is here to help. 

No facility manager ever wants to call in maintenance for an emergency. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, a mold sighting, or a broken AC unit, nothing ruins your day faster than having to plan and budget for an onsite repair. At MaintenX we try to make these headaches as quick and painless as possible. Our technicians value your time and work hard to reduce downtime and expenses. We also want to keep your facility running at peak performance through preventative maintenance checks, and helpful advice on how you can troubleshoot maintenance problems yourself before calling a technician. 

Some problems should be left to the professionals, but others you can quickly take care of yourself. Your HVAC unit is one such area where a little bit of knowledge can go a long way towards preventing maintenance calls and emergency situations. If you’re experiencing fluctuations in temperature or can never seem to get your office cold enough, here are some issues that may be the culprit:

The unit sizing or installation is wrong. 

Does your facility struggle every day to reach the temperature set on the thermostat? Does your AC quit after very short cycles, leaving tenants and staff dissatisfied? If so, you may have an HVAC unit that is improperly sized or installed. While you may not be able to fix the problem on your own, noticing these issues early on will help you amend the situation more quickly. 

You have poor airflow through your vents. 

When your air filters are dirty, you’ll notice several negative side effects. First and foremost, your AC will not run very efficiently. The unit needs to be able to easily pull air from the environment to cool it. If your filters are dirty, you’re effectively suffocating your AC unit and not allowing it to perform. You may also notice that your air quality is not what it should be. Your facility may be more humid, and you’ll notice that dust starts to accumulate because the air is not being properly ventilated. Ensure that you change your filters every month, or schedule regular preventative maintenance from MaintenX as our technicians will do this for you. 

Your thermostat is reading incorrectly

We typically recommend smart thermostats for clients, because they can better regulate temperature without any manual adjustment. However, there may be issues with your thermostat that go undetected, causing problems in your facility’s temperature control. If your thermostat is installed in a sunny area, it may read the average temperature of the facility incorrectly. You may also have incorrect readings if the batteries are about to die. Check to make sure your thermostat is reading correctly before putting in a maintenance request. 

If you’ve looked at all the obvious problems to your HVAC problem and still don’t see a solution, call your MaintenX technicians for help. We will happily visit your facility and either repair the issue immediately or provide suggestions on next steps for your problem. When your HVAC unit is in trouble, call MaintenX for help!

Temperature control is a vital aspect of maintaining a productive work environment. Not only is comfort important, but many inventory warehouses need a certain temperature to maintain quality of products. Regardless of the size or use for your facility, cool and comfortable temperature is necessary year-round. While many facilities currently use separate units for their heating and air conditioning, there may be a simpler solution for you. 

Heat pumps are available for commercial facilities and act as a two-in-one solution for heating and air conditioning. Heat pumps can reverse the flow of refrigerant, allowing them to cool air during the summer and heat air during the winter. This single system can save on maintenance costs and will function year-round no matter what you set your thermostat to every day.

Heat pumps work by moving environmental air inside or outside to facility depending on whether you want to heat or cool. They are more energy efficient because they use the heat and energy from outside to more easily heat and cool large spaces. While heat pumps may be a bigger initial investment, the energy savings you’ll gain from switching will pay for the unit in no time. If you’ve been considering an HVAC upgrade, there may be several reasons why a heat pump might work better in your favor. Here’s what you should look for when shopping for a commercial grade heat pump: 

ENERGY STAR rating

Heat pumps are on average more efficient than traditional HVAC units. However, not all heat pumps are created equal. If you’re going to spend extra on a heat pump upgrade, look for one with the ENERGY STAR mark of approval. These units can run produce nearly twice as much heat using the same amount of power. 

Your facility’s location and climate

As with any other heating and cooling system, your climate plays an important role on how efficiently certain heat pumps will run. Heat pumps work less efficiently when temperatures drop, so if you live in a colder climate you need to look for systems rated for cold weather. If you live in a warm climate, however, this will not need to affect your purchasing decision.

Your facility’s design

Just like with a traditional HVAC system, your heat pump must be able to meet the demands of your unique facility design. Building characteristics such as the insulation, square footage, and the number of windows you have will affect the size and needs of your heat pump. The best way to make an informed purchasing decision is by talking to your MaintenX technician for expert advice. They will likely do a load calculation based on these elements to determine the right size heat pump for your space. 

Heat pumps can be a great cost-savings investment on your facility, especially as the cold winter months approach. Talk to a MaintenX technician today to learn about options for your building. 

In a crowded building or office space, the thermostat can be a major point of contention for coworkers. Some like it nice and warm, others want to keep it cool, and some want to change the temperature day by day. This can cause headaches for managers who have much better things to do than police the thermostat during the day. 

But what if your employees and tenants could control the thermostat room by room and floor by floor? Or better yet, what if you could reduce heat and AC use in unused areas of your facility, while keeping areas of high foot traffic regulated throughout the day? Both of these things are possible when you choose a zoned heating and cooling system. 

Zoned heating and cooling systems allow you to change the temperature in multiple areas of a facility. This is especially useful for two-story buildings where one is in use more than the other. You can reduce heating and cooling in unused rooms or floors while keeping your busiest areas closely monitored. The result is cost savings for your facility, and happier coworkers all around. 

Zone heating is considered best practice in both residential and commercial settings. At MaintenX, we encourage all of our clients to upgrade to this system as it helps them save money and feel more comfortable at the office. Zoned heating can also reduce your energy consumption and therefore carbon footprint. It’s the ideal choice all around. 

However, zoned heating and cooling system upgrades can be pricey. Here are just a few reasons why we at MaintenX urge you to consider the upgrade despite the upfront costs: 

Zoned heating and cooling puts you in control.

When you install a zoned heating and cooling system, you can control multiple thermostats from one master panel. Depending on the occupancy of the zone, you can adjust to provide more comfort or a temperature similar to the outside environment to save money. Warehouses that are not often used can be hotter in the summer and cooler in the winter, while your main office building can remain a comfortable temperature all year long. 

You can easily integrate zoning into your current HVAC system.

While zoning system technology can be a pricey upfront investment, it is easy to install and incorporate with any current HVAC system. You may have to make small adjustments to your unit, but most of it should be straightforward to install. Talk to your MaintenX technician to find out what the costs and requirements will be for your facility to incorporate zoned climate control. 

Save money on your power bill.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, buildings with zoned heating and cooling can lower their power bills by up to 30% during hot and cold months. These savings can virtually pay for the more expensive upgrade to a zoned heating system. If your facility’s energy consumption is through the roof during the summer and winter, a zoned system may be the perfect solution. 

These systems are quiet.

A traditional HVAC system makes a lot of noise because it is constantly forcing hot or cold air through the entire building. Because zoned systems reduce the neat for heating and air conditioning, your HVAC system can take a much-needed break. This reduction in power demand will also make your HVAC system operate much more quietly throughout the day. 

Your zoned system will stand the test of time. 

Traditional HVAC systems last between 10 and 15 years on average with proper maintenance. While you may not be replacing your HVAC system frequently, you can get even more use out of a zoned heating and cooling system. Because they are more energy efficient, zoned systems can last up to 25 years with proper maintenance. 

At MaintenX we want to fit you with the right HVAC solution for your facility. Talk to one of our technicians today to learn if zoned heating and cooling is right for you. 

Depending on the age and design of your facility, you may be lucky enough to have a rooftop HVAC unit. Rooftop units (RTUs) have been popular in commercial building design since the early 20th century. Originally built for congested urban areas, they are now the standard for large commercial facilities and modern office spaces. If you don’t have an RTU, you may want to look into upgrade options for the benefit of your building. 

While there are no practical objections to having a ground HVAC unit, there are many benefits they simply cannot provide. Your HVAC unit may not seem like the most obvious upgrade for your facility, but it can make a major impact on the safety of your building. Below are just a few reasons why facility managers should look into RTUs when shopping for new HVAC systems: 

Flexibility

Unlike ground HVAC systems, RTUs are modular, meaning they can be easily redesigned or added onto as your building grows. If you decide to redesign your facility or add new buildings, it is easier to include new RTUs than it is to redesign a ground unit. If you have an older or historic building with no new construction planned in the future, this may not be a big priority for you. However, if you’re building a new facility, a rooftop unit is much more flexible to its future needs.

A quiet space

Technology advancements have made modern HVAC units much quieter than their predecessors. However, units on the ground will still be somewhat audible through the walls of your facility, and very audible outside. RTUs are far away from your staff and tenants, meaning that the noise produced from your unit won’t be noticeable at all. This is especially important for rental properties and office buildings, where peace and quiet are highly valued. 

Increased security

It probably comes as a surprise to many, but HVAC units are a common target of commercial building vandalism and theft. They are often taken apart at night and sold off in parts for hefty profits. Ground-level HVACs are easy targets; RTUs, on the other hand, are usually left alone because they are so much harder to reach.

More property space

Because they are contained in one unit and located where there are no other building features, RTUs allow you to maximize property space. You can use this space for aesthetic features like landscaping, or for practical features such as increased parking space. 

Reduce maintenance costs

Ground HVAC units require more maintenance because they are exposed to dirt and debris from the ground. Ground units can also be damaged due to flooding or heavy rains, whereas rooftop units are protected from most outdoor environments. Because they are better protected, they require less preventative maintenance per module.  

Energy efficiency

The most compelling argument for RTU installation is energy efficiency. RTUs have built-in economizers that make the most of outdoor air conditions and help save on energy. This can cut your power bill tremendously, in addition to the cost savings gained from decreased maintenance needs.

If you’re in the market for an HVAC upgrade, talk to a MaintenX professional find out what’s right for you. 

Autumn may be approaching quickly, but for many parts of the U.S., the air conditioning is still running on full blast. At our headquarters in Tampa, Florida, we don’t expect the cool weather to come for another few months. In the meantime, we want to help our clients cool their facilities more efficiently. A more efficient AC system means a lower power bill and a more comfortable environment for your staff. 

In order for your HVAC system to perform at maximum efficiency, you must take care of it with regular preventative maintenance. A MaintenX technician should visit your facility periodically to perform routine maintenance as well as spot potential issues. There are also several small changes you can make to your facility that will drastically improve your indoor temperature and give your AC a much-needed rest: 

Reduce the number of air leaks. 

Air leaks are classified as any space in your facility where climate-controlled air can escape. This includes windows, doors, and cracks in the walls that are not well insulated. The more air that escapes from these air leaks, the harder your AC will have to run during the day. To reduce this loss, make sure that your door and windows are well sealed, and have a maintenance technician check for cracks in the walls that could be allowing cold air to escape. 

Install blinds or energy-efficient windows. 

Heat comes into your facility not just from the hot air outside, but from the sunlight coming through your windows. While natural sunlight can be energizing for office workers, it can also heat up your facility. Close the blinds on especially hot days, or replace your windows with energy-efficient ones to keep heat out while letting the sunlight in. 

Adjust your thermostat. 

Some offices are uncomfortably chilly, but they don’t have to be. If you have your thermostat set below 70 during the summer in Florida, you’re probably going to be unsatisfied – either with the temperature or with your power bill. Slowly increasing the temperature over time to allow your employees to get used to a slightly warmer office will reduce your power bill and help make some of them feel more comfortable. 

Change your air filter. 

A congested air filter will make it more difficult for your AC to pull environmental air and cool it. The restricted airflow will cause your AC to run nonstop, and will also lower the air quality of your facility. The simplest solution is to replace it once a month or schedule regular preventative maintenance to ensure the job gets done. 

Upgrade your AC unit. 

Sometimes the reason your AC is running all the time is the unit itself. A unit that is too small, or has been in use for more than 10 years, will have a harder time cooling your large facility efficiently. It may be working overtime to make up for lack of efficiency. If your AC runs nonstop no matter what you do to reduce the heat, it may be time for an upgrade. Talk to your MaintenX technician to find out what HVAC units are available for your building.  

Call MaintenX today to learn about our HVAC maintenance and installation services. 

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning are an essential part of maintaining a productive work environment. Not only do they affect your staff’s comfort, but proper ventilation is a safety measure that should never be overlooked. Yet, despite its critical role in proper facility management, HVAC maintenance is often left on the back burner until a pressing issue surfaces. 

The reality is that preventative maintenance on your HVAC system is much less costly than the repairs and inevitable replacement that results from leaving your system unattended. Small facilities are most susceptible to HVAC damage because they often don’t prioritize maintenance in their budget. This leaves room for error, and will eventually lead to the pricey replacement of a system that has broken down from improper care. 

At MaintenX, we emphasize preventative maintenance as the first step for all of our clients. Here are just some of the issues you’ll run into if you don’t take care of your HVAC unit:

A dirty air filter can cost you thousands in repairs. 

Your HVAC’s air filter is not only important for maintaining air quality, but for protecting your system from unwanted contaminants. By not replacing it regularly you’re preventing proper airflow in your system, which can lead to premature malfunction. Unchanged air filters can also cause issues with your compressor, the main component of the system that circulates refrigerant through the unit to keep it running. If your compressor fails, you’ll have to replace the entire unit. By changing your air filter consistently, you’re giving your HVAC unit the best chance at reaching its maximum lifespan. 

Prepare for high power bills.  

When you neglect HVAC maintenance, your system has to work harder to maintain the right temperature. This translates to more power usage from your unit, and therefore a higher bill at the end of the month. Issues as simple as a clogged air filter can result in hundreds of extra dollars tacked onto your energy bill. Don’t let this happen — call MaintenX instead. 

Your facility is at a higher risk of fire.  

One of the most common sources of fires in a commercial facility is the HVAC unit. Frayed wires, heat pumps in poor condition, and loose parts can catch fire very easily, especially during the winter when the air is dry and the heater is running. However, even air conditioning systems can catch fire if not properly maintained. Regular preventative maintenance by a MaintenX HVAC technician can significantly reduce your facility’s risk of fire.  

Furnace problems can be deadly. 

The heating system in your HVAC unit can break down in several ways when not properly maintained. This is very dangerous because one of the waste fumes of heaters is carbon monoxide. This poisonous gas can leak into your facility if the flue vents, combustion chamber, and exhaust are not in proper working condition. Hopefully, your facility has carbon monoxide detectors to protect staff and tenants. However, maintaining your HVAC system will help put everyone’s mind at ease.

Preventative maintenance for your HVAC unit is essential to go getting the most out of your system, lowering your energy consumption, and keeping those in the facility safe and comfortable. Call MaintenX to learn about our preventative maintenance services. 

Temperature control is a major task for facility managers, yet one that is often overlooked. In large factories, fluctuations in heating and AC can affect product outcomes. A change in temperature can also disrupt warehouse productivity, or make a workforce very dissatisfied. So, when your heater goes out in the middle of winter, you’ve got a big problem on your hands. 

In Tampa, Florida, where MaintenX is headquartered, we may be several months away from true cold weather. However, before the change of season gets too close, you’ll want to run a diagnostic on your HVAC system to make sure it’s prepared for the chilly season. Detecting problems early is key to minimizing downtime at your facility. 

While routine preventative maintenance checks can usually prevent HVAC issues, sometimes the unavoidable breakdown will occur. If you find yourself in an emergency heater situation, here are a few steps you can take to keep staff and tenants warm:

Wait a few minutes for the heater to warm. 

If your staff is complaining of cold air just as they walk into the building, they may just have to be patient. HVAC systems circulate air from the environment and either warm or cool it depending on the difference in temperature between the environmental air and thermostat setting. This process will take a few minutes, meaning that it will blow cold air initially until the system has had time to warm up. Before you jump the gun and call a maintenance technician, wait 10 to 20 minutes to see if it warms up on its own. 

Check your thermostat. 

There is always the possibility that your thermostat, not your heater, is to blame for cold air blowing in winter. You may need to change the batteries or switch the thermostat from ‘fan’ to ‘heat’ if it’s the first time you’ve had to turn it up this year. If the thermostat setting is a frequent point of contention among your staff, you may want to look into smart thermostat installations to optimize both comfort and energy use. 

Check the air filter. 

Air filters are often the culprit when a heater is blowing cold air. For your heater to function properly, environmental air needs to be able to flow freely through the filter. If it is congested with dust and dirt, your heater will function less efficiently. Your MaintenX HVAC technician will typically replace air filters during preventative maintenance checks. If you haven’t scheduled a visit from us in a while, you may want to check your filter and replace it.    

If none of these simple solutions fixes your problem, it’s time to call a MaintenX professional. You may have a dead circuit board, a damaged motor, or problems in your ductwork that need a deft hand to resolve. We are always here to help with your HVAC and other maintenance issues.