The recent winter storms have highlighted the importance of being prepared for extreme weather. Here are some key steps to protect your commercial building during harsh winter conditions:
Snow Equipment and Supplies
- Test Your Snow Blower: Before the first snowfall, ensure your snow blower is in good working condition. Perform routine maintenance and keep spare parts on hand.
- Stock Up on Ice Melt: Having an adequate supply of ice melt is essential for keeping walkways, entryways, and driveways safe for pedestrians and vehicles. Don’t wait until a winter storm warning to buy this essential.
- Communicate with Your Snow Removal Contractor: Touch base with your contractor before the season starts to confirm plans. Regular communication helps ensure quick responses during storms.
Building Systems and Maintenance
- Seal Doors and Windows: Check all doors and windows for drafts or gaps. Proper sealing prevents heat loss and reduces energy costs.
- Inspect Stairwell and Mechanical Room Heaters: Test these heaters annually to confirm they’re operational. Ensure thermostats are calibrated and functioning correctly.
- Prepare Sprinkler Systems in Exposed Areas: Loading docks, parking garages, and other cold-exposed areas are susceptible to freezing. Drain sprinkler systems to prevent pipe bursts.
- Protect Pipes and Meters: Pipes and meters in unheated areas are prone to freezing. Ensure the surrounding area is well-insulated or has an operational local heat source. Turn off water to outdoor hose bibs, remove attached hoses, and drain the pipes to avoid freezing and damage.
- Ensure Heat Tape is Functioning Properly: Verify that all heat tape is operating at the correct temperature to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Check Outside Air Dampers: Ensure outside air dampers are functioning properly to maintain adequate airflow and prevent freezing conditions inside.
- Test Glycol Systems: Check the specific gravity of glycol systems to confirm the freeze point is appropriate for expected temperatures.
Proactive Planning with Crockett Facilities Services
When you partner with Crockett Facilities Services, you can rest assured that your building is winter-storm ready. Our team meticulously prepares and maintains your building systems ahead of time, ensuring uninterrupted operation and safety during extreme weather. From testing mechanical systems to coordinating snow removal plans, we’ve got you covered.
Contact Crockett Facilities Services today at 301-781-6538 or contact us online to learn how we can help keep your building safe and operational no matter the weather.