How to Prepare Your Building for an HVAC Inspection

As a business owner, comfort, efficiency, and safety in your commercial building are among your primary concerns. When was your last heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) inspection? Prioritizing these checkups ensures your climate control equipment runs smoothly for years to come. If you’re ready to schedule your next visit, follow this HVAC inspection checklist to prepare your building and occupants.

How to Prepare Your Building for an HVAC Inspection

As a business owner, comfort, efficiency, and safety in your commercial building are among your primary concerns. When was your last heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) inspection? Prioritizing these checkups ensures your climate control equipment runs smoothly for years to come. If you’re ready to schedule your next visit, follow this HVAC inspection checklist to prepare your building and occupants.

Why Are Commercial HVAC Inspections Important?

Your commercial HVAC system works tirelessly to maintain a consistent temperature, humidity level, and air quality across the building. Whether you run a retail store, office building, or warehouse, regular HVAC inspections benefit your business in numerous ways:

• Catch problems early: Small issues like worn-out components or clogged filters can escalate into costly repairs if not addressed. Regular inspections keep minor concerns from becoming major headaches.
• Boost efficiency: An optimized HVAC system uses less energy, saving you money on operating costs while reducing your company’s environmental footprint.
• Prolong the system’s lifespan: As with all mechanical systems, HVAC equipment lasts longer when it receives regular care. Adding years to each unit’s lifespan provides a better return on your investment.
• Stay compliant: Many local codes and regulations require periodic inspections to ensure safety and efficiency standards are met. Failing an inspection could result in fines or operational delays.
• Enhance comfort: A well-maintained HVAC system keeps employees and customers comfortable. Expect improved productivity and satisfaction when your building is at the proper temperature and humidity.

HVAC Inspection Preparation Checklist

Wondering how to prepare for an HVAC inspection? Follow these steps to make the inspection process as efficient as possible:

1. Notify building occupants: Inform your employees or tenants about the scheduled inspection. Let them know which areas will need access and whether there could be any brief disruptions to heating, cooling, or ventilation services.
2. Ensure clear access to HVAC equipment: Ensure all indoor and outdoor components—such as boilers, furnaces, air handlers, and outdoor condensing units—are easy to access. For interior components, move furniture, equipment, or storage items that might block the inspector’s path. As for outdoor HVAC units, clear sidewalks and trim overgrown plants around the equipment to give inspectors easy access.
3. Check maintenance records: Gather documentation of past HVAC inspections and repairs. This helps the inspector understand your system’s history and spot trends or recurring issues. Remember to update your records with the results of this inspection.
4. Review manufacturer guidelines: Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for system care and maintenance. Confirm you’re meeting any specific requirements that could come up during the inspection.
5. Communicate questions and concerns: Have you noticed inconsistent temperatures, unusual noises, or higher-than-normal energy bills? Bring these issues to the inspector’s attention so they can focus on them during their evaluation. This is also your chance to get expert advice, so prepare a list of questions about energy efficiency, system upgrades, or recommended maintenance to make the most of your inspection.
6. Hire the right professional: It’s important to work with a reputable HVAC service provider experienced in commercial systems. A seasoned pro will understand your building’s needs and help with your efficiency goals and compliance efforts.

What to Expect During a Commercial HVAC Inspection

Knowing what happens during the visit puts your mind at ease. Here’s what to expect once you’re done preparing for the HVAC inspection and the technician arrives at your business:

• System testing: The inspector will test your HVAC system’s functionality, including startup, running, and shutdown cycles.
• Component inspections: Critical components like compressors, coils, and fans will be examined for wear and tear.
• Refrigerant check: Refrigerant levels will be evaluated to ensure they’re within manufacturer specifications.
• Electrical assessments: Inspectors will tighten all electrical connections and look for signs of corrosion to ensure safety.
• Energy efficiency evaluation: The inspector may provide recommendations to optimize energy efficiency, such as upgrading components or fine-tuning settings.

After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues, necessary repairs, and maintenance tips. Use this as a guide to keep your system running smoothly.

Partner with Hayes Mechanical

Now that you know what to do before an HVAC inspection, choose Hayes Mechanical for a job well done. We have over 100 years of experience delivering commercial HVAC and plumbing solutions on time and on budget. Our technicians prioritize honesty and integrity at every job. Contact us today to schedule your next commercial HVAC inspection in Chicago, IL, or one of our six other locations across the US.