The change of seasons bring unique challenges to commercial facilities, and fall is upon us. As temperatures drop and precipitation increases, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your business from the elements. From dealing with seasonal hazards such as leaves and slick walkways to ensuring your facility is equipped to handle colder temperatures, a well-crafted fall maintenance plan is crucial. To help you get started we have compiled a comprehensive guide to get your business ready for fall:
Mitigate the Risks
The leading causes of breakdowns are aging equipment (34%), mechanical failure (20%), operator error (11%), lack of maintenance time (9%), poor equipment design (8%) according to Plant Engineering.
In order to mitigate risks you must fully understand what your up against. By listing potential risks you can ensure your maintenance plan addresses each one. These issues include
- Weather-related issues: Colder temperatures, increased precipitation, and seasonal hazards like rain, snow and ice.
- Energy efficiency: As temperatures drop, it’s important to ensure your facility is adequately heated and insulated to prevent energy loss and excessive heating costs.
- Safety hazards: Seasonal hazards like slippery walkways, fallen branches, and increased pest activity can create safety risks for both employees and customers.
Be sure to consider where your location is located and the typical weather patterns to determine other problem areas while developing the risks.
Essential Areas to Include in Your Fall Maintenance Plans
Now that you have looked at the risks autumn brings it’s not time to consider ways to combat them. Below we have a compiled 7 areas to include in your fall maintenance plan.
1. HVAC System
Your HVAC kept your employees and customers cool all summer. However, it’s job is not done just because it’s beginning to cool off. Now is the time to make sure it’s ready to keep your facility warm and inviting.
- Inspect and Clean: Have your HVAC system inspected and cleaned by a professional to remove dirt, dust, and debris that reduce efficiency and cause breakdowns.
- Check Filters: Regularly replace or clean air filters to improve air quality and prevent system strain.
- Seal Leaks: Seal any air leaks around windows, doors, and ductwork to prevent energy loss and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
2. Exterior Maintenance
The exterior of your facility protects the inside. The last thing you need is a leaky roof or cracked windows. Walk around the exterior of your building and take a closer look and make a list of any damages or potential risk areas.
- Roof Inspection: Conduct a thorough roof inspection to identify and repair any damage, such as leaks or missing shingles, before the harsh winter weather sets in.
- Gutter Cleaning: Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent clogs and water damage.
- Window and Door Maintenance: Inspect and repair any damaged or cracked windows and doors to improve energy efficiency and security.
3. Interior Maintenance
Your interior is just as important as your exterior and should be treated with care. Add the following to your fall maintenance plan.
- Plumbing Inspection: Check for leaks, clogs, and slow-draining drains in your plumbing system to prevent water damage and costly repairs.
- Fire Safety: Ensure fire extinguishers are up-to-date and inspected, and employees know how to use them.
- Lighting: Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting.
- Cleaning and Sanitization: Maintain a clean and sanitized environment to prevent the spread of germs and diseases.
4. Energy Efficiency
Keep your costs under control and system not overworking to the point of breakdown with these tips.
- Insulation: Check the insulation in your building to ensure it is adequate and in good condition.
- Lighting Control: Install motion sensors and timers to control lighting and reduce energy consumption.
- Weatherstripping: Seal doors and windows with weatherstripping to prevent air leaks and improve energy efficiency.
- HVAC Tune-Ups: Regular HVAC tune-ups can help improve energy efficiency and extend the life of your equipment.
5. Emergency Preparedness
Sometimes the best-laid plans go astray which is why having an emergency plan is just as important as the original. Be sure each staff member know what the plan is, where the supplies are located and review regularly.
- Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan outlining procedures for handling various situations, such as power outages, severe weather, or security breaches.
- Emergency Supplies: Stock your facility with essential supplies, including first-aid kits, flashlights, batteries, and a generator if necessary.
6. Pest Control
Mice, flies, and other pest… Oh my. No one wants to have them overrunning their facility. Now is the perfect time to ensure you’re protected against them.
- Preventative Measures: Take steps to prevent pests from entering your building, such as sealing cracks and holes, using screens, and eliminating food sources.
- Professional Treatment: If necessary, hire a professional pest control company to address any infestations.
7. Security Measures
Keep your location safe and secure no matter the time of day by reviewing the following.
- Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting throughout your property, both indoors and out, to deter crime and improve security.
- Access Control: Review and update your access control systems to ensure they are functioning properly and providing the necessary level of security.
- Security Cameras: Inspect security cameras and replace any faulty equipment. Consider upgrading to higher-resolution cameras or adding additional cameras to blind spots.
Getting Started with Your Fall Maintenance
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your commercial business is well-prepared for the fall season. Regular maintenance and preventative measures help prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and create a safe and comfortable environment for your employees and customers.
Need help reviewing your Fall Maintenance Program for effectiveness or completing it? We can help. SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide is a premier facility maintenance company with over 25 years of experience partnering with companies like yours for their on-demand and preventative maintenance needs. Our services range from waste management, backflow, handyman, electrical and more. Need help with your fall maintenance list? Contact SLM Facility Solutions Nationwide to help you get start.