How often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced?

Imagine this: you walk into your bustling Auckland office on a scorching summer day. But instead of the expected cool air greeting you, a wave of heat hits you like a slap.

The air conditioning seems to be on strike, leaving you and your employees sweating it out. Frustration mounts, productivity plummets, and the once-pleasant work environment becomes a sticky mess. Sound familiar?

While breakdowns can happen anytime, the good news is that with proper maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of your commercial air conditioning unit staging a summer walkout. But the question remains: how often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced to keep them humming along smoothly?

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced. Several factors influence the ideal service frequency for your specific system, including:

The Size and Type of Your System: A large, complex system serving a multi-storey building will naturally require more frequent servicing compared to a smaller system in a single-storey shop. Larger systems have more components that need regular maintenance, such as motors, compressors, and fans.

Usage: The more you use your air conditioning, the more wear and tear it experiences. Businesses that operate long hours or in hot environments may need more frequent servicing. Heavy usage can accelerate the deterioration of components and reduce the system’s overall lifespan.

Environment: Dusty or polluted environments can clog filters and coils more quickly, necessitating more frequent cleaning and maintenance. Construction sites, restaurants with deep fryers, and even busy retail spaces with high foot traffic can all contribute to a dirtier environment for your HVAC system.

These environmental factors can increase the frequency of maintenance required to keep your system running efficiently.

Age of the Unit: As your air conditioning unit ages, it may require more frequent servicing to maintain optimal performance and efficiency. Older systems may have worn-out components that are more prone to failure, so regular maintenance is crucial to prevent breakdowns.

While the specific frequency depends on the factors mentioned above, a good general rule of thumb is to have your commercial air conditioning unit serviced at least once a year. This includes a professional cleaning and inspection to ensure everything is functioning optimally.

While an annual service is a good starting point, how often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced can be more nuanced. Here’s how you can refine your service schedule:

Consider scheduling an additional service call before the peak summer season. This proactive approach ensures your system is prepared for the extra workload and reduces the risk of breakdowns during the hottest months.

In Auckland, with its mild winters, you might not need a pre-winter service, but for areas with harsher winters, a pre-winter check-up might be beneficial to ensure the system is ready to handle the cold weather.

Air filters play a crucial role in maintaining good air quality and system efficiency. The frequency of filter changes will depend on the type of filter, the environment, and the specific needs of your building. For high-traffic areas, dusty environments, or buildings with many occupants, more frequent filter changes may be necessary to maintain optimal performance and indoor air quality.

Beyond scheduled maintenance, it’s important to be attuned to your air conditioning unit. Here are some signs that your system might need a service call outside the regular schedule:

Is your air conditioning struggling to maintain the desired temperature? This could indicate clogged filters, dirty coils, or a refrigerant leak. Regular filter changes and professional coil cleaning can help maintain optimal cooling performance.

Grinding, clunking, or other strange noises are all signs of potential problems. These noises could indicate worn-out parts, misalignment, or other mechanical issues that require professional attention.

A significant increase in your energy bills could be a sign that your air conditioning unit is working harder than usual due to inefficiency. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and calibration, can help improve energy efficiency and reduce your energy costs.

Excess moisture around the unit can indicate clogged drainage lines or other issues. Proper drainage and ventilation are essential for preventing mold and mildew growth, which can lead to respiratory problems and structural damage.

How often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced is just one aspect of a comprehensive maintenance plan. Partnering with a reliable HVAC maintenance company can take the guesswork out of keeping your system running smoothly. Here’s what to look for in a good partner:

Look for a company with experience servicing commercial air conditioning units of all sizes and types. A seasoned company will have the knowledge and skills to diagnose and fix complex issues, ensuring your system operates at peak efficiency.

A good company will offer a range of maintenance plans to suit your specific needs and budget. These plans can be tailored to your business’s unique requirements, ensuring that your system receives the attention it needs to perform optimally.

Unexpected breakdowns can happen anytime. Choose a company that offers 24/7 emergency services to minimize downtime and get your system back up and running quickly. A reliable emergency service can help prevent costly repairs and disruptions to your business operations.

Prolectrix is a trusted name in commercial HVAC maintenance in Auckland. We can help you develop a customized service plan to keep your system running efficiently and reliably.

Regular maintenance is the key to a long and healthy life for your commercial air conditioning system. By understanding how often should commercial air conditioning units be serviced and partnering with a reliable HVAC maintenance company, you can ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and a comfortable indoor environment for your business.

Remember, a well-maintained HVAC system not only improves comfort but also enhances productivity and reduces operational costs. By investing in regular maintenance, you’re safeguarding your business’s success and ensuring a pleasant working environment for your employees and customers.