When temperatures soar, your building feels it too. 

Extreme heat doesn’t just make employees and customers uncomfortable, it also puts added stress on HVAC systems, increases utility costs, and can shorten the life of expensive equipment. A well-maintained facility can help keep occupants comfortable while reducing energy consumption, even during the hottest days of the year. 

Here are several ways facility managers can prepare their buildings for heat waves while keeping operating costs under control. 

Start With Your HVAC System 

Your HVAC system works harder during periods of extreme heat than almost any other time of year. According to Energy Star, without routine maintenance, it may struggle to keep up with demand, resulting in higher energy bills, uneven temperatures, or unexpected breakdowns. 

Before and during the hottest months: 

  • Replace or clean air filters regularly.  
  • Inspect and clean condenser and evaporator coils.  
  • Verify refrigerant levels and inspect for leaks.  
  • Ensure outdoor units are free of leaves, dirt, and other debris.  
  • Check that thermostats are properly calibrated.  

Routine maintenance helps HVAC systems operate more efficiently while extending equipment life and reducing the risk of costly emergency repairs.  

Prevent Heat From Entering the Building 

The less heat that enters your building, the less your cooling system has to regulate. 

Simple building maintenance improvements make a noticeable difference, including: 

  • Keeping blinds or shades closed on sun-facing windows during peak afternoon hours.  
  • Sealing gaps around doors and windows.  
  • Inspecting weatherstripping for wear.  
  • Maintaining roof insulation and repairing damaged areas.  
  • Using window films or exterior shading where appropriate.  

Even small improvements to a building’s exterior can reduce cooling demands throughout the summer.  

Reduce Internal Heat Sources 

Not all heat comes from outside. 

Lighting, electronics, office equipment, and machinery all generate heat that forces HVAC systems to work even harder. 

Facility managers can reduce unnecessary heat by: 

  • Replacing older lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures.  
  • Turning off lights and equipment in unused spaces.  
  • Scheduling energy-intensive tasks during cooler morning or evening hours when possible.  
  • Using occupancy sensors to reduce unnecessary lighting.  

Lowering internal heat gains can improve comfort while helping reduce electricity costs.  

Optimize Cooling Without Wasting Energy 

Many people assume lowering the thermostat dramatically will cool a building faster. However, according to ASHRAE, HVAC systems cool at a steady rate, so setting extremely low temperatures usually only causes the system to run longer and consume more energy. 

Instead, facilities can improve efficiency by: 

  • Using programmable or smart thermostats.  
  • Adjusting temperatures slightly in unoccupied spaces.  
  • Ensuring vents remain clear of furniture, boxes, or equipment.  
  • Using ceiling fans or air circulation where appropriate to improve occupant comfort.  

These adjustments help maintain comfortable temperatures while avoiding unnecessary energy use.  

Don’t Forget the Outside of Your Facility 

The condition of your building’s exterior also affects indoor comfort. 

Landscaping and exterior maintenance can help reduce heat buildup by: 

  • Keeping HVAC equipment clear of vegetation and debris.  
  • Maintaining trees that provide natural shade without blocking airflow around equipment.  
  • Inspecting roofing materials for damage that could reduce energy efficiency.  

Preventive exterior maintenance helps cooling systems perform at their best throughout the summer.  

Create a Heat Preparedness Plan 

Heat waves often place additional strain on building systems. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, having a plan before temperatures spike helps reduce disruptions. 

Consider creating a seasonal checklist that includes: 

  • Scheduling preventive HVAC inspections before summer begins.  
  • Monitoring indoor temperatures in problem areas.  
  • Reviewing emergency contacts for HVAC service providers.  
  • Communicating energy-saving practices with employees and tenants.  
  • Tracking utility usage to identify unusual increases.  

Planning ahead can help facilities respond quickly if equipment issues arise during periods of extreme heat.  

Keep Your Building Comfortable All Summer Long 

Extreme heat is becoming more common, making preventive facility maintenance more important than ever. Regular HVAC service, smart energy practices, and proactive building maintenance helps facilities stay comfortable while controlling operating costs and reducing wear on critical equipment. 

By taking a proactive approach before the next heat wave arrives, facility managers protect both their buildings and the people who depend on them every day. 

Visit gocitywide.com to learn more about how City Wide can help prepare facilities beat the heat.