Winter is around the corner, which means that colder temperatures are on the horizon. But cooler weather also means that it’s time to ensure that your modular building’s HVAC unit has been properly serviced to avoid any interruption to your heat supply. We’ve asked some of our top HVAC experts some common questions about HVAC maintenance. Let’s explore the steps to keeping your HVAC unit in good condition.
Maintenance Tips from our Expert Technicians
What are the benefits of keeping your HVAC maintained and in good shape?
There are three main benefits of keeping your HVAC properly maintained. First, with routine maintenance, your HVAC unit will run more efficiently, resulting in a lower power bill. Second, there’s less chance of your HVAC seizing up – causing the unit to stop working. When the days are cold and the nights are long – no one wants to be without heat! Third, installing fresh filters means better air quality, too.
What are some common winter HVAC issues you might experience?
If you properly maintain your HVAC unit, you shouldn’t have any issues when the heat kicks on. But if you don’t perform regular maintenance, there are a few things that can happen.
Be aware of a potential burning smell when the unit is first turned on—this comes from dust being burned off the auxiliary heat strips during the first startup. If the smell doesn’t dissipate within a few minutes, turn the unit off and contact your Satellite Shelters local expert. If you hear a loud buzzing sound, this may be caused by a heat contactor failure. Or potentially, the fan may not work at all, and you can even get a running fan but no heat. If you’re experiencing any issues with your HVAC unit, just remember, Satellite has your back! We’ll work with you to get a licensed HVAC specialist out to your site as quickly as possible.
How often should an HVAC be serviced?
We recommend replacing your HVAC filter once per month at minimum. If your building is located at a particularly dusty or dirty worksite, we recommend service more frequently. Ask your Satellite Shelters Sales Representative about adding HVAC filters to your rental contract. Full service on your HVAC should be completed every 6-9 months.
How soon before winter or cold weather do you need your HVAC to be serviced?
You should have your HVAC unit serviced within a month of impending cold weather. More broadly, it’s a good idea to make sure your unit is serviced every time you’re changing from heat to air conditioning or vice versa. By testing your unit early, you can avoid delays in getting an HVAC technician out to your site when you’re in need of heat most.
What qualifications should you look for in someone to service your HVAC unit?
All HVAC technicians need to be certified. We recommend an EPA Universal certificate along with Bard experience. They must be licensed to work with R-410 refrigerant and freon.
Does Satellite directly service HVAC units?
Yes. Some branches have their own internal staff that service units. However, others outsource to local, certified, third party HVAC technicians.
How long will HVAC service take?
An HVAC service should not take more than an hour. Servicing of the HVAC will not interrupt any work being done onsite.
How much should an HVAC service cost?
The cost for an HVAC service can vary widely depending on the type of maintenance needed as well as the type of site where your building is located. Call your local expert to talk about specific issues you are experiencing to get an accurate estimate.
What is typically involved in an HVAC/thermostat service?
An HVAC and thermostat service includes a variety of components. Your HVAC technician will test the unit power, check meters at the transformer and contactors, and install a new filter. They will also clean ducts as needed and replace and/or order replacement parts as needed.
An HVAC and thermostat service will also involve cleaning of both coils—the top evaporator and the bottom condenser coil. They will also check all electric components in the system, such as contactors, relays, thermal limits, and capacitors for each motor, as well as the thermostat itself. Finally, your HVAC technician will answer any questions at the time of the service should you have any.
Make Sure You’re Equipped for the Changing Seasons
Even when your HVAC technician isn’t onsite, there are multiple ways you can make sure your HVAC unit is humming along nicely. We’ve assembled a maintenance checklist for winter and summer, additionally, below are some routine maintenance items that you can complete:
- Change your filters. While a full servicing must be performed by an official HVAC service technician, you can change filters on your own. They must be replaced atleast every 30 days.
- Maintain a reasonable temperature. In the winter, set your thermostat no higher than 72 degrees, and in the summer, set your thermostat no lower than 68 degrees. This will minimize unnecessary work from the HVAC unit, which will help prevent malfunctions.
- Keep supply registers open and clear. Additionally, don’t block return air grilles.
At Satellite Shelters, we’re here to help with your modular building maintenance questions and needs. If you need additional space for your jobsite or organization, contact us today for a free quote.
