Winterize Your Commercial Building Now

It's no secret that the Chicagoland area seems to have a penchant for the winter season. While the blankets of white sparkly snow are familiar enough that we pull on our boots and pay it little mind, getting your commercial building in proper order isn't quite the same. To keep your facility safe and operable all season long, you must prep your commercial building for the coming winter.

Schedule HVAC System Maintenance 
Your HVAC system is likely running full steam ahead in the summer months. Schedule your yearly HVAC maintenance to complete a systems check in the fall. Identifying any issues before temperatures drop is the best practice for keeping operations in order; this includes:
 

• Checking and changing air filters
• Inspecting and repairing broken parts
• Reviewing vent work for leaks or holes that might be damaging efficiency
• Cover all outdoor air-conditioning units that will go unused during the winter

 
It can also let you know if you need to repair any issues that have popped up during spring and summer.

Inspect Roofing and Make Repairs 
Before winter storms hit, make sure you schedule a roof inspection. Inspectors will be able to detect any leaks and internal damage that could wreak havoc on your commercial property in the winter months. One severe storm could damage the integrity of your roof from the weight of snow and snowmelt. Identifying any structural damage or leaks early on will ensure the roof is structurally sound and capable of withstanding another winter.

Prevent Potential Plumbing Disasters 
Pipe freezes and flooding are the most common costly disasters on commercial properties in the winter months. Not only is it frustrating when you need to close down your business to repair those damages, but it is also costly. The average water damage claim from frozen pipes costs around $10,000 or more. To prevent any expensive repairs, having preventative measures in place is essential, including:
 

• Wrapping pipes and faucets in unheated or minimally heated areas of the property
• Testing freeze stats and valves before the weather gets too cold 
• Sealing cracks and openings near exposed pipes 
• Setting the internal thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit at all times

 
Check and Update Insulation Levels 
Poor insulation causes tremendous heat loss, costing you money in utility bills and potentially causing other winter weather issues within your building. Be sure to inspect your property's insulation for any holes or compromised areas that are causing leaks; this includes weather stripping, roofs, and any other unheated areas. Additionally, check the quality of insulation levels throughout your building. Is the insulation level sufficient? Are there places that could use more insulation, or does the entire building need an update?
 
With the advancements in insulation methods, it's now possible to get blanket-style insulation, foam insulation, rigid insulation, and various other efficient, easy-to-use technologies that can help you save on heating and cooling costs.
 
To learn more about winterizing your commercial property, contact Sun Mechanical Systems. Proudly serving the Chicagoland area, Sun Mechanical specializes in commercial HVAC to meet your needs. Contact us day to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team!