So, How Often Should You Service That Commercial AC?
When it comes to commercial AC maintenance, getting ahead of the game can save business and building owners money and headaches. When your building’s AC suddenly quits during a heatwave and your tenants are calling nonstop about hot rooms, it’s already too late. That’s why we’re big believers in being proactive with commercial HVAC contractors near you in Napa.
A well-timed service call doesn’t just keep things running smoothly, it saves you from expensive repairs, frustrated clients, and surprise breakdowns in the middle of your busiest season. So how often should you really be checking in on your commercial AC system?
Twice a Year: The Golden Rule
If there’s one simple rule to live by, it’s this: Get your commercial HVAC system checked twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. That timing lines up with the changing seasons and ensures your system’s ready to roll when temperatures start to spike or drop.
Why it Matters
You’ll catch small problems before they turn into big headaches
Your energy bills won’t sneak up on you
Your system won’t quit during your busiest hours
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Every commercial space is different. A restaurant’s HVAC needs are totally different from a quiet little office or a data center. High-traffic spots or places with lots of equipment usually need more attention.
Quick tip: If you’re unsure, talk to a local HVAC pro (like us at Vaughn’s). We tailor plans based on how your building is used and how hard your system’s working.
How Old Is Your System?
Older equipment tends to be a bit needier. If your system is creeping past the 10–15 year mark, more frequent checkups (like quarterly) are a smart move. Newer systems? You might be fine with that twice-a-year rhythm, especially if they’re high-efficiency models and not running 24/7.
Things to watch with older systems:
Leaks
Worn belts
Failing motors
Warranty conditions that require documented maintenance
How Hard Is Your System Working?
If your AC is humming nonstop every business day, that’s a sign to bump up the maintenance schedule. Constant use wears things down faster, simple as that.
Here in Napa, those warmer months really push systems to the limit. If your business is running year-round (like a salon, restaurant, or gym), we usually recommend adding an extra check-in or two.
Let’s Talk Filters (Seriously)
We can’t count how many service calls come down to a clogged filter. It’s an easy fix, but one that’s often overlooked.
General Best Practices
High-traffic spaces like restaurants or salons: Check monthly
Office spaces or lower-use areas: Every 3 months is probably fine
Clean Filters Mean
Better air quality
Happier employees and customers
Less wear on your HVAC system
Preventive Plans = Peace of Mind
The best way to stay ahead of HVAC issues? A preventive maintenance plan. At Vaughn’s Heating & Air, our commercial clients love the convenience (and savings) of these plans. We include everything from coil cleanings to electrical checks and refrigerant tests.
Bonus: Regular maintenance can help your system last up to 40% longer.
Seasonal HVAC Checklists
Keeping your HVAC system on track means knowing what to check, and when. That’s why we follow a seasonal game plan. Here’s what our techs focus on during spring and fall visits to keep your system running like it should year-round.
Spring
Clean condenser coils
Check refrigerant levels
Calibrate your thermostats
Test controls and safety switches
Fall
Inspect heat exchangers and burners
Clean blower components
Check ductwork for leaks
Make sure the system starts and shuts down properly
Consistency here keeps things smooth and safe.
Don’t Forget About Compliance
Depending on your industry (especially if you’re in food service, healthcare, or manufacturing) having up-to-date HVAC logs can be a compliance requirement.
We always provide full documentation after a service visit, so you’re covered if OSHA or a health inspector comes knocking.
Pay Attention to the Little Things
Hear a strange noise? See a spike in your utility bill? Feeling uneven temps in parts of the building? Those are signs your system is trying to tell you something.
Don’t wait until the next scheduled service. Give us a call and we’ll check it out before it turns into something bigger.
Why Local Matters
Choosing a local HVAC company makes a big difference. We know Napa’s climate inside and out, and we’re just a short drive away if something urgent comes up.
Why folks choose Vaughn’s Heating & Air, Inc.:
Family-owned, right here in Napa
No-surprise pricing and honest recommendations
Decades of experience with commercial systems
Financing options that help you get the services you need, when you need them
Clean Air = Happier People
Regular maintenance isn’t just about comfort, it’s also about air quality. A dusty, neglected system can circulate allergens, mold, and other nasty stuff that nobody wants to be breathing in. Clean coils, new filters, and well-balanced airflow can help provide better air quality for everyone.
Pro tip from the field: Clients who include routine air quality testing with their HVAC service get fewer complaints and stay ahead of any potential health issues.
If You’ve Got Tenants, This One’s for You
Managing a commercial or multi-tenant property? Trust us, HVAC issues are the fastest way to hear from unhappy tenants. Regular servicing keeps everyone comfortable and keeps those service calls to a minimum.
We’ve worked with plenty of Napa-area property managers to set up plans that reduce complaints, keep shared systems in check, and make your job easier.
Stay Ahead and Skip Emergencies
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to HVAC maintenance. That’s why we offer flexible plans designed around your space, your equipment, and your budget.
Looking for commercial HVAC contractors near me in Napa? You found us! At Vaughn’s Heating & Air, Inc., we treat your business with the same care and respect we give our own, no shortcuts, no upsells, just solid service.
📞 Contact us online now or call (707) 408-3385 to schedule your HVAC service today.
