Deferred maintenance often starts by not scheduling inspections and allowing the backlog to grow higher than what the firm can handle.
You might think that by deferring preventative maintenance, you are saving some money. While that is true for the upfront costs, in the long run, it simply isn’t worth it. Eventually, repairs will become too expensive to remain sustainable. Also, preventative maintenance ensures that no new problems appear. Finally, inspections are necessary, even if no support is currently needed.
Rising Costs of Repairs
Future repairs for commercial HVAC systems and associated technologies are often overlooked when businesses are determining their operating budgets for the coming fiscal year. That’s part of the reason that deferred maintenance often happens – because there’s no money available for upkeep right now. The problem with this is that there won’t be savings available to deal with unexpected obstacles, even if no issues are present during an inspection. That won’t always be the case. In short, while minor repairs will be inexpensive now if they are put off until later, the problems will only grow worse. This then means that repairs are so costly that a full overhaul, upgrade, or replacement of existing systems may be a better use of the funds and resources your company has at its disposal.
Preventative Maintenance Works
It’s also important to note that PM works. By getting in front of the problem, you could save up to 30 times as much money as allowing the issues to grow worse through accidental neglect or intentionally deferred maintenance. As summer temperatures approach, energy demands are going to start going up. Keeping your employees and customers healthy and comfortable is best for business. Only a small portion of the operating budget needs to be set aside for repairs and regularly-scheduled maintenance of HVAC systems and all other equipment onsite – if IT assets stop working, the problem would be deemed an emergency, so why wouldn’t the same principles apply to heat and cooling units? The answer to this question is complicated, but it also means that inspections can’t be avoided.
Inspections are Mandatory
Inspections of currently-functioning systems are a necessity. The building needs to be inspected for fire hazards and other potential safety risks, and the HVAC system is no exception. Deferred maintenance often starts by not scheduling inspections and allowing the backlog to grow higher than what the firm can handle. Ultimately, proving the real risks of not maintaining your systems could be the key to securing the funding required to get it done now before any problems arise.
Crockett Facilities Can Help!
Crockett Facilities Services, Inc. (CFSI) is committed to helping building owners, property managers, engineers, and facility professionals lower their operating expenses through HVAC preventive maintenance. We can develop a cost-effective, customized preventive maintenance plan for your commercial building that will provide you with peace of mind, improved comfort, and energy savings.
To learn more about the importance of HVAC Preventive Maintenance, please contact us at 202.600.2787 or mford@crockett-facilities.com. Our PM contract customers receive priority service with 24/7 emergency service in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest!