Is it time to Switch from Heat to Air Conditioning?

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When is the Right Time to Switch from Heat to Air Conditioning?

April 1, 2021

Especially for commercial kitchen managers, choosing the right time to switch your HVAC system from heat to air conditioning can save you a bundle in energy costs. However, it can be difficult to determine when to make the switch. Moving to AC too early may unnecessarily increase your energy costs, but waiting too long can cause discomfort for your staff and those you serve. You’ll also want to slowly transition to air conditioning to ease the strain on your HVAC.

With all that in mind, how do you know when to make the seasonal change from heating to AC? As the days get longer and the temperature gets warmer, you may be wondering when to make the switch. Here are a few tips for choosing the best time to transition your commercial HVAC equipment from heating to AC.

1. Make the change to AC earlier rather than later.

Although you may be tempted to wait until the outside temperature really heats up, try to switch to AC before the heat becomes too intense. There are two reasons to consider switching early. First, you should keep in mind the physical comfort of those inside the building. Whether your commercial kitchen serves students, retired people, or the general public, keeping everyone comfortable is important.

The second reason to switch to air conditioning is to keep your commercial kitchen and your employees cool. Commercial kitchens can get extremely warm, making them uncomfortable for workers. Even though commercial equipment is built to withstand the heat, it’s not a great idea to have an overly warm environment. When the ambient air temperature is not at an ideal setting, your refrigerators, freezers, ice machines, and other cooling equipment will have to work much harder to do their jobs. If that’s the case, you may end up with a higher energy bill from your units that will cancel out any savings you may have from delaying the switch to AC.

2. Wait for a stretch of warm days.

Switching from heat to AC and then back again can drive up your energy costs. It also can be hard on your HVAC system and components. Ideally, you’ll want to make the switch from heat to AC on a single day, but we all know the weather doesn’t always cooperate. Using a trusted weather forecast, keep an eye out for a string of days when the weather is warming up. While you may end up with a colder day or two, a string of 7-10 warm days can signal that it’s time to make the switch.

3. Before you switch, have your HVAC system inspected.

While well-maintained AC equipment will last for years, an eight-month break is a long time for a piece of commercial equipment. A break in use during the winter can occasionally lead to operational issues, particularly with the condenser. At ATECH, we suggest a yearly checkup of your HVAC system to keep it running smoothly. An authorized service agent (ASA) can clean, inspect, and test your HVAC to check that it’s operating optimally. Ideally, you should test your HVAC before you switch over to AC. That way, if there are any issues with the equipment, it can be remedied before warmer weather arrives.

Curious about when to switch from heat to AC?

The trusted team at ATECH can help advise and guide you when it comes to keeping your entire HVAC system up and running. Our customers run convenience stores, schools, nursing homes, grocery stores, correctional facilities, restaurants, and more, so we understand complex, multi-unit HVAC systems. If it’s been months since your commercial HVAC equipment was inspected, give us a call today to schedule an assessment.

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Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

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