Best HVAC Practices for Preparing a Commercial Building for Spring

As winter fades and temperatures rise, commercial building managers often face unexpected HVAC failures, increased energy costs, and poor indoor air quality. If your system isn’t prepared for the seasonal transition, you could experience costly inefficiencies and discomfort for tenants.

For 16 years, Harold Brothers Mechanical, Inc. has helped businesses optimize their HVAC systems, lower energy costs, and prevent unexpected breakdowns. We know that proactive maintenance and smart energy upgrades are key to keeping your system running efficiently year-round. Whether you need routine inspections, coil cleaning, or advanced solutions like smart thermostats, our team is here to help you stay ahead of costly repairs and ensure peak performance.

In this guide, you’ll learn the 12 best HVAC practices to get your system spring-ready, covering everything from preventative maintenance to energy-saving upgrades.

1. Spring HVAC Inspections are Critical for Efficiency

A thorough HVAC inspection catches small issues before they become expensive repairs. A professional spring inspection should include:

✔ Checking air filters, coils, and ductwork for dirt and debris
✔ Inspecting belts, pulleys, and moving parts for wear
✔ Ensuring electrical connections are secure
✔ Testing thermostats and system controls for accuracy
✔ Checking for refrigerant leaks

Why It Matters

Preventative inspections help avoid costly breakdowns during peak cooling months. A well-maintained system also ensures optimal indoor comfort, keeping employees and tenants satisfied.

2. Indoor Air Quality Improves with Air Filters

Spring allergens like pollen and dust can clog air filters, reducing airflow and increasing energy use. Regularly replacing or cleaning air filters ensures:

✔ Better indoor air quality
✔ Less strain on your HVAC system
✔ Lower energy costs

Upgrade Option

Consider high-efficiency HEPA filters, which capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles, significantly improving indoor air quality.

3. Duct Cleaning is a Must for Maximum Efficiency

Over time, dust, pollen, and mold spores accumulate in air ducts, impacting both air quality and system performance. A spring duct cleaning helps:

✔ Reduce allergens and airborne contaminants
✔ Improve overall airflow and efficiency
✔ Prevent mold and bacteria buildup

Bonus Tip:

If leaks or damage are found, sealing ducts can further improve energy efficiency and lower utility bills.

4. Save on Energy Costs with Spring Thermostat Optimization

A well-calibrated thermostat prevents energy waste and ensures comfort. For spring, make sure to:

✔ Test thermostat accuracy
✔ Adjust settings for warmer temperatures
✔ Upgrade to a smart thermostat for automatic energy adjustments

Why Upgrade?

Smart thermostats learn occupancy patterns and adjust temperatures automatically, saving up to 10% on energy bills. Many models also allow for remote access, giving building managers greater control.

5. Coil Cleaning will Improve HVAC Efficiency & Performance

Dirty condenser and evaporator coils reduce heat exchange efficiency, making your system work harder and use more energy. Regular cleaning:

✔ Enhances cooling performance
✔ Reduces energy consumption
✔ Extends the life of HVAC components

Pro Tip:

Clean coils twice a year, particularly before and after high-use seasons like summer and winter.

6. Refrigerant Levels Matter for Spring HVAC Readiness

Low refrigerant levels can lead to:

✔ Poor cooling performance
✔ Higher energy use
✔ Potential compressor damage

Pro Tip:

A refrigerant leak can be costly—if levels are low, a technician should check for leaks before refilling to prevent ongoing issues.

7. Combat Spring Allergens & Stale Air with Ventilation Upgrades

Proper ventilation prevents stale air, excess humidity, and allergen buildup. To ensure optimal indoor air quality:

✔ Check air exchange rates
✔ Inspect ventilation fans for dust buildup
✔ Consider installing UV purification or HEPA filtration

UV light systems eliminate bacteria and viruses, further improving indoor air quality.

8. Clear HVAC Drainage Systems to Prevent Water Damage

Spring moisture can clog condensate drains, leading to:

✔ Water leaks and structural damage
✔ Mold and mildew growth
✔ High indoor humidity levels

Solution:

Flush drainage lines to remove blockages and prevent costly damage. Check drain pans for standing water, which may indicate clogs.

9. Avoid Costly Breakdowns with Preventative HVAC Maintenance

Routine maintenance extends equipment life and reduces repair costs. A professional tune-up should include:

✔ Lubricating moving parts
✔ Inspecting fan motors and belts
✔ Checking heat exchangers for cracks
✔ Testing system safety controls

Why It Matters

Preventative maintenance can cut repair costs by up to 40% and ensure that your system runs efficiently year-round.

10. HVAC Upgrades: Is It Time for an Energy-Efficient System?

If your HVAC system is 10+ years old, upgrading to energy-efficient components can significantly cut costs. Consider:

✔ High-efficiency air handlers
✔ Variable-speed fans
✔ Zoning systems for precise temperature control

Investment Tip:

Newer HVAC technology lowers operational costs and may qualify for tax incentives or rebates

11. Reduce Energy Waste Year-Round with Insulation & Air Sealing

A well-insulated building reduces HVAC workload and maintains consistent temperatures. To maximize efficiency:

✔ Inspect for gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork
✔ Seal leaks to prevent cooled air from escaping
✔ Upgrade insulation in key areas

Energy Savings:

Proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 30%.

12. Educating Building Occupants and Small Changes will result in Big Savings

Building occupants play a major role in energy efficiency. Encourage them to:

✔ Keep windows and doors closed when HVAC is running
✔ Report HVAC issues promptly
✔ Adjust thermostats appropriately

Awareness = Savings: Small behavioral changes can reduce HVAC energy use by 5-15%.

Bonus Tip: Explore Renewable Energy HVAC Solutions

More businesses are incorporating renewable energy into their HVAC systems, including:

✔ Solar-powered HVAC units
✔ Geothermal heating and cooling
✔ Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems

These eco-friendly solutions can further reduce costs and environmental impact.

Get Your HVAC System Spring-Ready

Keeping your HVAC system in top shape saves money, prevents breakdowns, and ensures reliable performance—especially in the spring when demand increases. Simple tasks like cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting ductwork help it run efficiently and avoid unnecessary strain from winter wear.

Regular maintenance—such as coil cleaning and thermostat adjustments—can lower energy bills, extend your system’s lifespan, and improve overall efficiency. If your HVAC system has outdated components, upgrading key parts like thermostats or motors can enhance performance and cut costs. A little maintenance now means a hassle-free, energy-efficient system when you need it most.

Now that you’ve learned the top 12 things to look out for when preparing your commercial building for spring, your next step is to learn more about preventative maintenance plans that would make worrying about all of this a thing of the past. At Harold Brothers Mechanical, Inc., we provide expert HVAC solutions tailored to your commercial building’s needs. Contact us today to ensure your system is ready for spring!