Facility managers, it’s time to grab hold of the opportunity that comes with spring. Spring is an ideal time for building system maintenance and facility cleaning. It’s time to remove all the grime, wear and tear of winter and prepare the facility and major systems for efficiency and minimal breakdowns over the summer. The spring is also a time to do exterior facility maintenance without the threat (hopefully) of snow.
HVAC
Even commercial heating and cooling systems are susceptible to the conditions of a hard winter. Every facility commercial HVAC system should be cleaned and key components checked. Filters should be changed and, periodically, a duct cleaning performed to minimize allergy issues. The level of the refrigerant needs to be checked. If there is a low level, the unit should be checked for leaks. For optimal operation, moving parts should be lubricated.
Flooring
Spring is an ideal time of year to strip and wax floors, especially in high-traffic areas. A regular strip and floor wax adds shines to floors and extends the life of the flooring. Schedule floor cleanings for hours when the facility is at low-staff or empty to avoid interruptions in productivity. For carpeted areas, contact a professional floor cleaning service about an after-hours carpet cleaning. In addition to floor cleaning, all rugs placed by doors should be laundered to remove salt, dirt, and grime.
Exterior
While a solid facility exterior may seem infallible, winter conditions can negatively impact a building exterior. Every spring, inspect the building for cracks, holes in caulk around windows, and roofing for damage. Any damage found during inspection should be repaired. The facility should be power washed and gutters cleaned out. All light bulbs in exterior light fixtures should be inspected and light bulbs replaced as needed. The entire exterior maintenance process can be done in-house, outsourced, or completed by both staff and an outside service. (Contact a facility maintenance service for a quote.)
Grounds
Facility ground maintenance is an essential part of building maintenance, especially after a long, hard winter. In addition to being part of maintaining a professional appearance, ground maintenance is a preventative effort. Trees should be trimmed and branches cleaned up. Maintenance should also be completed on lawns and floor beds. Driveways and sidewalks should be washed and sealed if needed.
Restrooms
Restrooms need a regularly scheduled cleaning and periodic deep cleanings. Spring is an ideal time for a deep restroom clean that sanitizes every surface. A deep restroom clean should be completed during times when the restroom is not utilized by staff or scheduled for off-hours. A deep cleaning is also a chance to do any outstanding scheduled maintenance or repair work.
