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Winters in Pennsylvania aren’t good for HVAC systems. Temperatures below freezing, chilly winds, and frequent snowfall—everything fights against HVAC. Whether it is a furnace, heat pump, or rooftop unit, it can withstand a brutal winter if it starts the season in good condition. A commercial HVAC checklist is essential to prepare the system for colder months.
Lehigh HVAC prepared this checklist specifically for PA business managers. Follow the steps below, complete each, and enjoy steady HVAC performance all winter long.
This is the very basic but critical component. It filters air, prevents harmful particles, and maintains healthy indoor air quality. If clogged with dirt, buildup, or pet dander, the blocked airflow pressurizes core components, leading to complete HVAC failure. That’s why replace air filters regularly (preferably every month) for better filtration, performance, and indoor air quality.
Cleaning is essential for every HVAC make and model. But it needs a specialized approach for various systems. Clean evaporator coils, condensate drain lines and drain pan, vents, registers, and return grilles. Not just the indoor unit; cleaning the outdoor unit is equally important. Remove buildup around it. Trim tree branches leaning towards it. Remove accumulated dirt and grime. Eliminate all obstacles and hurdles within a 5-foot radius around the outdoor unit. This keeps airflow optimized and performance at its best.
Ductwork spreads warm air throughout the property. That’s why it should be free from leaks, gaps, cracks, and discontinued joints. Hire a professional for a complete ductwork inspection. Small gaps can be sealed, while replacing ducts is the ideal solution for larger gaps and cracks.
Electrical problems are important too. Poor insulation, short circuits, and frequent power outages affect HVAC. Technicians inspect the electrical network, identify any persistent issues, and fix them before winter woes hit. They replace capacitors and contactors, insulate connections properly, and balance the load on the circuit associated with the HVAC appliance.
Winter thermostat settings differ from summer. That’s why it is essential to recalibrate the thermostat according to business requirements. The best strategy, however, is to install a smart thermostat that adjusts the temperature according to climate fluctuations. Or you can install a programmable thermostat model for better temperature control and energy savings according to your provided schedule.
Resource: smart thermostat vs. programmable model
A large portion of warm air escapes through small holes in ductwork. The portion that reaches rooms is lost through windows, doors, attics, and small fissures in the walls. Sealing ductwork and insulating rooms prevents it. Warm air stays confined to the space where it is actually required. It increases indoor comfort and reduces energy bills.
Inspect safety controls and bring them to working condition before you start operating the HVAC in colder months. It includes carbon monoxide detection alarms, smoke dampers, flame sensors, and associated controls for refrigerant, condensate overflows, and electrical disconnect switches.
Once the technician has done their part, check the system yourself. Turn it on, run it for a few minutes, and check performance. Check if it has any unusual sounds, odors, short cycling, or performance issues. Also check if it warms the space within the expected time up to the expected temperature.
To keep reliable HVAC performance all winter long, you need something more than the initial tune-up. It requires a regular maintenance schedule, including DIY steps and professional visits. The best would be to get into a professional, local HVAC contractor for a maintenance agreement. It ensures air filters are replaced regularly, inspections are done frequently, and the unit stays in top condition.
For Pennsylvania users, Lehigh HVAC offers affordable maintenance contracts with frequent visits, professional service, and ongoing support. Contact us to discuss more.
