The Importance of Commercial HVAC Planned Maintenance & Our Step-byStep Approach

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At Caledonian Mechanical., we are committed to delivering in-depth, professional, and efficient commercial HVAC maintenance services. A well-maintained cooling system is essential for energy efficiency, equipment longevity, and uninterrupted operation—especially in commercial spaces where a sudden breakdown can lead to costly downtime.

Our Planned Maintenance (PM) program is designed to prevent unexpected failures, reduce excessive power usage, and maximize system efficiency. We typically recommend two cooling and two heating maintenance visits per year, ensuring that every component is operating at peak performance before the start of each season. With each visit, our trained technicians follow a structured and detailed checklist, carefully inspecting, testing, and recording critical system parameters. After each service, our customers receive a digital maintenance checklist with pictures of discovered issues, along with a detailed breakdown of proposed repairs or solutions.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of Our Cooling Planned Maintenance

Each cooling maintenance check consists of several key tests, inspections, and cleanings to keep your HVAC system running at its best.

1. Temperature & Refrigerant Charge Verification

Measure and record the cooling temperature differential across the evaporator coil. Check and record superheat or subcooling to verify the correct refrigerant charge (if ambient temperatures are above 68°F). Ensure refrigerant levels are within manufacturer specifications to avoid efficiency losses or compressor strain.

2. Electrical Component Testing & Safety Inspection

Measure voltage and current readings for all major electrical components:

  • Blower motor
  • Compressor
  • Condenser fan motors

Inspect all electrical connections for signs of overheating, dark marks, or loose wires. Perform a smoke detector test to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

3. Airflow & Static Pressure Testing

Measure static pressure to confirm proper airflow through the system and ductwork. Identify and address any excessive friction or restrictions that may be affecting performance.

4. Coil Cleaning & Condensate Drain Maintenance

Clean both evaporator and condenser coils with water (additional chemical cleaning available if required). Flush and clear the condensate drain pan and pipe, ensuring proper drainage and preventing water damage. Insert condensate pan treatment capsules to prevent bacteria growth in stagnant water.

5. Economizer Testing & Lubrication

Inspect, test, and lubricate the economizer motor to ensure proper fresh air intake and ventilation. Verify that the economizer operates from 0% to 100%, adjusting as necessary for efficiency.

6. Capacitor & Fan Belt Inspection

Test all run and start capacitors—capacitors under 6% of their rated value are recommended for replacement. Check and replace fan belts, ensuring correct tension and torque calibration on the blower motor.

7. Air Filter Replacement & Ductwork Inspection

Replace air filters and clean any fresh air filters. Inspect all ductwork for signs of wear, leaks, or poor insulation that could affect efficiency.

8. Thermostat & Sensor Calibration

Test and calibrate thermostats and climate sensors to ensure accurate temperature control. Verify that all control sequences are functioning correctly.

9. Detailed Reporting & Recommendations

Record system model numbers, sizes, locations, and areas served within the building. Provide a digital checklist report with pictures of identified issues. Offer detailed repair recommendations, complete with a breakdown of parts, costs, and expected benefits.

Why Choose Caledonian Mechanical. for HVAC Planned Maintenance?

Preventative Maintenance Saves Money – Avoid costly emergency repairs and unexpected downtime.

Energy Efficiency Optimization – Reduce power consumption and keep operating costs low.

Prolonged Equipment Lifespan – Proper care extends the service life of your HVAC system.

Transparent Reporting – Our digital checklist provides full visibility into your system’s health.

Tailored Maintenance Plans – We customize our maintenance services to fit your business’s specific needs.

Regular planned maintenance is the key to a reliable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting HVAC system. Contact Caledonian Mechanical. today to schedule a professional cooling maintenance check and keep your system in peak condition!