Summer Building Maintenance Tips for Facility Managers
Categories: HVAC | Indoor Air Quality | Maintenance | Plumbing
We know that every season places unique demands on your building's systems, and summer is no exception. Rising temperatures, heavy humidity, and powerful storms can all create operational challenges. A proactive maintenance plan during the summer months not only improves occupant comfort but also reduces energy waste, prevents unexpected breakdowns, and extends the life of your systems.
To help you prepare, we’ve compiled our Summer Building Maintenance Checklist, designed with decades of RBI expertise to address the needs of modern facilities. Here’s a closer look at the key areas to focus on this season.
Table of Contents
How Summer Conditions Impact Buildings
The key to beating summer’s heat and humidity lies in proactive care, starting with your building’s HVAC systems, boilers, plumbing, and structure to ensure peak performance when it matters most.
HVAC Maintenance
A properly maintained HVAC system is the cornerstone of summer building performance.
As energy usage spikes during the warmer months, even small inefficiencies, like a clogged air filter, can lead to higher costs and diminished comfort.
Common HVAC Issues in Summer
- Dirty or clogged filters that restrict airflow.
- Malfunctioning thermostats, leading to inconsistent temperatures.
- Tripped breakers or blown fuses due to heavy system loads.
- AC capacitor failures that can shut down your system entirely.
- Clogged condensate drain lines, causing water leaks.
- Refrigerant leaks that result in poor cooling and higher energy bills.
- Blocked ventilation or duct leaks, reducing overall efficiency.
- Compressor failures, which can be expensive summer repairs.
- Overcooling of unoccupied spaces, wasting energy.
Key Tips to Optimize Your HVAC System
| Set thermostats wisely | Monitor humidity levels | Improve indoor air quality |
|---|---|---|
| Aim for slightly higher but comfortable settings to reduce system strain and energy costs. | Use dehumidifiers when necessary, but avoid excessive drying, which can impact air quality and electrical equipment. | Poor indoor air quality in summer can exacerbate allergies; ensure ventilation and filtration are functioning optimally. |
| Replace air filters regularly | Don’t neglect hidden spaces | Clear outdoor units |
|---|---|---|
| Every 1–2 months during summer, as pollen and dust can quickly clog filters. | Inspect attics, crawl spaces, and ductwork for leaks or obstructions. | Remove vegetation and debris for proper airflow. |
Professional HVAC Maintenance
Be sure to hire a maintenance company to perform more in-depth preventative maintenance. This service will ensure your system stays safe and efficient for as long as possible. Professional commercial maintenance service often includes:
- Evaporator and condenser coil cleaning for optimal heat exchange.
- Duct inspections to identify leaks or blockages.
- Condensate drain and pan cleaning to prevent water damage.
- Electrical system testing and tightening of connections.
- Lubrication of all moving components.
- Thermostat calibration for accurate readings.
- Refrigerant level checks and leak detection.
- Seasonal system adjustments and maintenance recordkeeping.
Boiler Maintenance
Even when boilers are not in use, summer is the perfect time to prepare them for the colder months. In our experience, many winter failures can be traced back to neglect during the off-season.
Off-Season Boiler Checklist:
- Inspect for leaks or corrosion.
- Check for pressure irregularities or faulty gauges.
- Clean burners and heat exchangers.
- Test safety valves and low water cutoffs.
- Schedule annual servicing now to avoid the fall rush and keep your system running reliably when it’s needed most.
Plumbing Maintenance
Plumbing systems can face increased demand during summer, especially in buildings with irrigation or cooling systems that rely heavily on water. Proactive maintenance prevents small leaks from becoming costly repairs.
Common Summer Plumbing Issues
- Clogged drains or toilets caused by increased use.
- Leaky faucets or valves, which can waste water.
- Overloaded sump pumps during heavy storms.
- Pipe bursts due to thermal expansion in high temperatures.
Plumbing Tips
- Conduct routine inspections of sinks, toilets, and appliances.
- Clear drains to prevent stormwater backups.
- Monitor pipes for stress or leaks caused by temperature fluctuations.
- Inspect irrigation systems for hidden leaks and ensure they are operating efficiently.
- Flush water heaters periodically to remove sediment buildup and improve performance.
- Test sump pumps to make sure they can handle sudden downpours.
Structural Maintenance
The summer heat and storms can take a toll on your building’s structure if not monitored carefully.
Common Structural Problems
- Failed weather seals, allowing hot air infiltration.
- Water intrusion near windows or foundation.
- Gutter blockages, causing improper drainage.
- Heat warping the siding, roofing, or wood trim.
- Cracks in foundation or wall materials due to moisture shifts.
Recommended Maintenance Tasks
- Replace worn weatherstripping around doors and windows.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure water is diverted away from foundations.
- Inspect roofing, flashing, and skylights for damage or missing materials.
- Monitor wooden or composite materials for signs of swelling, discoloration, or cracking.
These structural checks are essential not just for comfort and energy savings, but also for maintaining the long-term integrity of your facility.
Additional Building Considerations
Beyond routine maintenance, these extra steps can boost energy efficiency, reduce wear on equipment, and help your building run smarter during peak summer conditions.
Summer Safety Tips
Summer weather can bring unique safety risks, so it’s important to address these key precautions to keep both occupants and facilities protected.
- Maintain safe indoor temperatures for all staff and occupants.
- Use slip-resistant mats near building entrances during storms.
- Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms as part of routine checks.
- Inspect emergency lighting and exit signage to ensure visibility and code compliance.
Summer Building Maintenance FAQs
Partner with RBI for Reliable Summer Maintenance
With over 75 years of experience, Riddleberger Brothers, Inc. is your trusted partner for comprehensive mechanical service. Whether you need HVAC optimization, plumbing upgrades, boiler servicing, or indoor air quality solutions, we provide responsive, knowledgeable support backed by field-proven expertise.
Our Services Include:
- HVAC Maintenance
- Boiler Maintenance
- Building Automation & Controls
- Predictive & Preventative Maintenance
- Plumbing Services
- Indoor Air Quality
- Electrical Services
- Energy Services
It’s never too late to get your systems ready for the season. Let RBI help you extend equipment life, improve efficiency, and avoid downtime.