It's one of the most common questions we get from building owners and facility managers. The honest answer is that it depends on the equipment, how hard it works and what the manufacturer recommends. But there are some good rules of thumb.
A typical maintenance schedule
Most commercial systems are serviced monthly or quarterly, with some tasks done less often:
- Monthly to quarterly: check and replace filters, inspect fans and belts, clear condensate drains, check controls and general operation
- Six-monthly: clean coils, check refrigerant circuits, test electrical connections and safety controls
- Yearly: a full condition assessment of each asset, so you can plan repairs and replacements before they fail
Busy or critical buildings, like hospitals, data rooms and kitchens, often need more frequent visits. A small office split system may need less.
Cooling towers are a separate category. They have their own regulatory requirements to control Legionella, so they're serviced and reported on separately from the rest of your HVAC.
Signs your system needs attention now
- Some areas are too hot or too cold
- Higher energy bills without any change in use
- Unusual noises, smells or vibration
- Water leaking from units or ceilings
- Systems tripping or short-cycling
Why planned maintenance pays off
Regular servicing keeps systems running efficiently, which keeps energy costs down. It extends the life of expensive equipment, cuts down on breakdowns, and keeps tenants and staff comfortable. It also means problems are picked up and priced before they become emergencies.
Setting the right schedule
The best starting point is a site visit. We register every asset, look at its condition and the manufacturer's requirements, and set a schedule that suits your building. If your systems also have fire and smoke control functions, those are added to the program under AS 1851.
