With the arrival of summer and the long-awaited July sales, shopping centres are filled with visitors looking for the best deals. This increase in the influx of people means a greater load on the air conditioning systems, which must work at their maximum to maintain a comfortable environment. Therefore, it is crucial to carry out adequate and preventive maintenance of these systems during this critical period. Here we explain why and how to do it.
INDEX
Benefits of Preventive Maintenance
1. Energy Efficiency:
Well-maintained HVAC systems operate more efficiently, resulting in lower energy consumption. Not only does this reduce operating costs, but it also contributes to the environmental sustainability of the shopping centre. For every degree that the temperature is lowered, it is estimated that energy consumption can increase by 8%, so keeping the system in optimal condition helps to avoid unnecessary and costly adjustments.
2. Thermal Comfort:
During sales, maintaining a comfortable temperature is essential for customer satisfaction. A comfortable environment encourages shoppers to stay longer and potentially consume more. The ideal temperature for the human body ranges between 20ºC and 25ºC, and achieving this temperature depends largely on a properly functioning HVAC system.
3. Health and Safety:
Proper maintenance ensures that ventilation and HVAC systems are clean and free of contaminants. This is especially important in a high-traffic environment like a shopping mall, where indoor air quality can impact the health of visitors and employees. Regularly cleaning filters and inspecting ducts helps keep the air free of dust, allergens, and other contaminants.
Main Maintenance Actions
1. Filter Cleaning and Replacement:
Filters should be cleaned or replaced regularly. This ensures optimal airflow and maintains indoor air quality. Dirty filters not only reduce system efficiency, but can also recirculate dust and allergens throughout the mall.
2. Component Check and Adjustment:
It is critical to check and adjust key components of the HVAC system, such as thermostats, belts, etc. These components must be in perfect condition to avoid failures during peak hours.
3. Duct Inspection:
Air ducts should be inspected for possible leaks or blockages. Air leaks can reduce system efficiency and increase operating costs, while blockages can prevent fresh air from reaching all areas of the mall.
4. Refrigerant Level Control:
Checking and adjusting refrigerant levels is crucial to maintaining system efficiency. An inadequate level of refrigerant can cause the system to malfunction, reducing its ability to cool the air and increasing energy consumption.
5. Periodic Inspection of Energy Efficiency:
According to the Regulation of Thermal Installations in Buildings (RITE), an energy efficiency inspection of the generators must be carried out every 4 years, in most installations with installed thermal power greater than 70 kW. This inspection must be carried out by an Authorized Control Organization (OCA), which will issue a certificate of conformity or point out the deficiencies to be corrected.
6. Complete Inspection Every 15 Years:
Every 15 years, and as in the previous case, when the installed power is greater than 70 kW, a complete inspection of the thermal installation must be carried out, also carried out by an OCA. This inspection ensures that the entire system, from the heat generators to the ventilation ducts, is in good condition and working efficiently.
In summary, preventive maintenance of HVAC systems is essential to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment in shopping centres during the summer sales. This maintenance not only optimises energy efficiency and reduces operating costs, but also improves customer experience and ensures compliance with current regulations. Investing in good maintenance is key to commercial success and long-term sustainability.
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