Summer HVAC Maintenance Checklist for Commercial Properties

Get your system ready for Raleigh summer

As summer approaches in Raleigh, NC, businesses must prepare their commercial HVAC systems for the heat and humidity that define the season. Whether you manage a multi-tenant office building, retail space, medical facility, or warehouse, preventive HVAC maintenance is critical to ensuring your operations run smoothly, your tenants or employees remain comfortable, and your energy bills stay in check.

This comprehensive commercial HVAC maintenance checklist is designed specifically for property owners, facility managers, and building engineers based in Raleigh, Durham, and surrounding areas, looking to proactively address summer HVAC demands.

Why Summer HVAC Maintenance Is Critical

Raleigh’s summer weather regularly brings temperatures above 90°F and high humidity, conditions that place considerable stress on commercial HVAC systems. In commercial buildings, HVAC systems typically run longer hours and serve more complex spaces than residential units, meaning routine maintenance is not optional — it’s essential.

The risks of neglecting summer HVAC prep include:

• Tenant complaints and comfort issues
• Sudden system failures or breakdowns
• Elevated energy bills due to inefficiency
• Decreased system lifespan
• Business interruptions or closures due to system failure

By performing a thorough maintenance routine, businesses can avoid costly disruptions and ensure climate-controlled comfort throughout the building.

Commercial HVAC Summer Maintenance Checklist

Below is an overview of the steps we would take during an HVAC maintenance service. While some of the below can be taken care of yourself, we recommend utilizing a professional commercial HVAC contractor to ensure everything is done correctly. (Our planned HVAC maintenance service ensures your system is up and running year round!)

• Replace or clean air filters: Dirty filters can restrict airflow, degrade air quality, and increase energy consumption. Typically, we recommend filters replaced using the specifications by the equipment manufacturer. The indoor environment also needs to be taken into consideration when putting together a filter change schedule.

• Inspect and clear outdoor condenser units: Debris like pollen, leaves, and construction dust can collect around condenser coils, especially in urban areas or near landscaping zones. Our technicians clean the outdoor condenser coils to ensure maximum efficiency.

• Inspect refrigerant levels and pressures: Refrigerant imbalances reduce cooling efficiency and may signal a leak, which is a serious issue in any commercial space. An HVAC contractor will be able to test pressure readings and recharge if needed.

• Check and clean evaporator coils and blower assemblies: Dirty evaporator coils restrict airflow and decrease cooling performance. In commercial buildings, contaminants can accumulate quickly due to higher foot traffic and outside air intake. Evaporator coils should be cleaned at least once a year. Blower assemblies should be inspected at least once a year.

• Clean and test drain pans and condensate lines: Clogged condensate drains can overflow and cause water damage, especially in high-rise buildings where HVAC systems are often located above ceilings.

• Lubricate motors, bearings, and mechanical components: Continuous operation in summer causes wear on fans, motors, and compressors. Lubrication prevents mechanical failure and minimizes noise.
• Check electrical connections and control panels: Loose wiring or corroded terminals can cause shorts, trip breakers, or lead to unsafe conditions. We’ll inspect relays, capacitors, and contractors and tighten any loose or unsafe connections.

Benefits of Proactive Commercial HVAC Maintenance

A properly maintained HVAC system yields substantial benefits:

• Lower Operating Costs: Increased energy efficiency means lower monthly bills
• Tenant Satisfaction: Reliable cooling reduces complaints and improves retention
• Fewer Emergency Repairs: Prevents unexpected downtime and business disruptions
• Longer System Life: Extends the service life of expensive HVAC assets
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures alignment with health, safety, and energy regulations

Discover more reasons to invest in regular HVAC maintenance on our blog.

Choose the Best Commercial HVAC Partner in Raleigh

For businesses in the Raleigh area, summer HVAC maintenance isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your assets, keeping your tenants happy, and ensuring smooth operations during the year’s most demanding season. Use this checklist as a foundation for your summer prep and partner with our reputable commercial HVAC contractors to keep your building running at peak performance.