We all know the saying, “April showers bring May flowers” is also a sign that summer is on the way! Summer is a time to enjoy warmer weather but when you are responsible for a facility, summer means more than just warm weather. You must also consider unique building conditions and prepare your facility for summer, both inside and out.
As temperatures rise, here are a few tips for interior and exterior preventative maintenance to increase the longevity of your facility and its systems to keep your equipment running and your tenants comfortable, happy, and safe. This checklist can ensure your facility is running smooth all summer long.
Interior Maintenance
While summer can be a favorite time of year for many, properly maintaining your building’s temperature is essential to combat the heat outside. If your building isn’t ready for the summer heat, it can have a negative effect on your facility and in the long run cost more money due to building damage.
First, evaluate your building’s energy consumption and identify ways to operate at higher efficiency. Create a list of everything you find, such as any air leaks and drafts which are most commonly found around windows and doors seals and electrical outlets. This is also a good time to consider your lighting. Installing LED lights, sensors, timers, and dimmers are all ways to reduce energy consumption. For more on LED lighting options read, “Energy Saving Commercial Lighting Tips for Spring”.
After completing your list, this will help you to determine and reduce energy consumption costs and take care of any systems and mechanics that need to be fixed or replaced for summer. If you are looking for a professional to help, Omni Facility Maintenance is the team you need.
Second, conducting essential maintenance to your HVAC system, this is essential during the summer months. Before summer hits in full effect, you should service your HVAC system, meaning it’s time for a thorough inspection and cleaning of major parts such as coil surfaces, fan impellers, and blades. Preventative maintenance and inspection on your systems, such as HVAC, are important in making sure you can keep the temperature inside your building under control and maintain the longevity of your equipment. This can also help to prevent any expensive HVAC failures that could interrupt your business.
Lastly, checking all thermostats are set to the proper target temperatures. We also suggest setting timers in specific parts of your facility where less activity may occur which can also help you to save energy and costs. While these may seem like small steps to take, they can
Exterior Maintenance
All seasons take a toll on your building’s exterior and as we approach the summer there are several locations on the exterior of your building that should be inspected to ensure your facility is ready for the heat.
First, inspect your roof to ensure there is no visible or obvious damage. With the intense heat that we see in summer months coupled with thunderstorms that can be extremely severe, making sure your roof can withstand the constant change in weather is necessary. It is also important to check downspouts and building trim which may have sustained damage during winter months (freezing) or spring storms. Identifying potential areas where water can infiltrate the facility is essential in your summer maintenance.
Second, for safety, check the functionality of your outdoor lighting and security systems. The climate can add wear and tear to exterior lighting and security systems. In preparation for summer and the higher volume of people on your property, inspect and test your lighting. This is especially in critical areas such as parking lots and entryways for safety reasons.
Be Prepared for All Seasons
Summer is around the corner and that is top priority but, we have blogs for all seasons! We have all the tips and tricks to add to your seasonal checklists or give us a call you facility maintenance professionals.
For more seasonal tips for your building, read these blogs on our website:
“Preparing Your Facility for Spring”