Published by Propmodo: Even the best property managers can overlook preventive maintenance of HVAC units. At times, heating and cooling systems are a perfect example of the phrase “out of sight and out of mind.” They may not be the biggest priority if they’re already working properly. But just like cars, if you can keep your HVAC units well-maintained, you can prevent many serious problems. HVAC units that undergo regular preventive maintenance not only avoid costly repairs, they last longer and lead to lower energy bills.

Hiring a contractor for a predictive maintenance program will be more expensive, but it may pay off in the long run. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that a well-run predictive maintenance program provides savings of 30 to 40 percent over reactive maintenance, where HVAC units and components are only fixed after failures. Facilities that fall into the reactive maintenance mode can also pay a hefty price. New Buildings Institute reports that reactive maintenance on most property equipment can increase energy costs by as much as 30 to 60 percent.

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