Tips & Strategies
Written by Saff Young
🕛 1 Minute Read
5 Checks To Keep Your Building Running This Winter
Winter can be tough on buildings, the drop in temperature puts added pressure on the systems that keep everything running efficiently. For Facility Managers and Property Managers, a few simple checks now can save you time, money and stress later on.
Here are five key maintenance tasks to prioritise this winter:
1. Optimise Plant Controls
- Outside Air Temperature lockouts: Ensure thresholds are configured correctly so chillers, cooling coils and extract fans do not run unnecessarily in low temperatures.
- Time schedule checks: Verify that all time clocks and BMS schedules align with current building usage to avoid wasted runtime.
- Sensor calibration: Inspect external temperature sensors feeding into the BMS. Inaccurate readings can result in plant cycling at the wrong times.
2. Service Heating Systems
- Boilers: Check combustion efficiency, flue integrity, burner performance and water quality (scale and corrosion inhibitors).
- AHUs & FCUs: Replace or clean filters, check belt tension and ensure heating coils are free from blockages.
3. Review Temperature Settings
- Setpoint verification: Ensure space temperatures are aligned with building requirements.
- Occupant comfort vs efficiency: Reassess setpoints following any building use changes which may lower demand and save energy.
4. Update Lighting Schedules
- Daylight saving: Adjust lighting controls and timers to account for reduced daylight hours and clock changes.
- Occupancy sensors: Test PIRs and daylight sensors to ensure they are working correctly and not overriding time schedules.
5. Protect Pipework with Trace Heating
- Trace heating systems: Inspect for continuity, insulation damage and thermostat operation to ensure reliable frost protection.
- Exposed pipework: Prioritise vulnerable areas such as rooftop plant, car parks, external risers and unheated voids.
Winter maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be planned. If you’d like support with inspections, servicing or optimising your building systems, our team is here to help. For more information about our services, take a look at our maintenance page!
