NATURE COOLING LTD

HVAC Repair and Services Maintenance Strategies The PRSM editorial board recently raised the question of the “best,” strategic approach to HVAC maintenance. Of course, there is no one best strategy to be implemented because so many variables must be considered when planning your specific strategy. What follows is a discussion of the specific options open to facility managers and the variables to consider when designing an HVAC program. Breakdown maintenance: This is basically for those who believe that the cost of preventive maintenance cannot be justified. No filter changes or preventive maintenance procedures are performed on a scheduled basis. Those who practice this model believe, or answer to people who believe that fixing only what is broken, and only when it affects store comfort is the least costly strategic direction for their company. This option may be deemed appropriate in pop-up locations. Scheduled Filter Replacement: This is for those who have come to the realization that air filters get clogged after a certain number of hours of blower operation. They have learned that it is less costly to replace filters on a scheduled basis than it is to replace them when clogged filters have reduced air flow to the point that they have caused catastrophic component failure, or an inability to heat or cool the space adequately. Scheduled filter replacement is always more cost effective than demand filter replacement because replacing filters on a demand basis normally requires two visits by a technician. The first visit is for diagnosis and the second visit is to replace the filters after the sizes and quantities have been determined. Preventive Maintenance: The preventive maintenance process can include anything from a simple visual inspection annually to proactive replacement of components based on run time, regardless of whether they have failed. Most programs for retail stores fall somewhere within this range. Emergency Replacement: At some point an HVAC system