Facilities Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Business Looking and Running Great

You want your business facility to stay neat and clean with everything working the way it should. Whether you are a property owner or facilities manager, there are several steps you can take to help you achieve that goal. Consider these helpful tips that will have your building and grounds looking and running like new.

Embrace Sustainability

There are so many reasons to implement sustainability programs throughout your facility. For starters, it can help you save money on utilities and upkeep. It is also increasingly popular with consumers, who will appreciate your commitment to the environment and conservation. 

Start by scheduling an energy audit to help identify where you can improve efficiency. Address any sustainability concerns that come up during your audit and learn about options for decreasing your energy consumption. 

If you are going to be improving the grounds, adopt a xeriscaping design that maximizes the use of hardscaping where possible. This will help you cut down on water usage and the routine care that landscape plants require.

Consider adding backup generators or solar power combined with battery banks to keep your systems running even when the power goes out. This is a fairly substantial investment, but it will pay off with saved data and increased productivity if you are in an area prone to blackouts. 

Not all changes have to be major renovation projects, either. You can swap out older bulbs for new, energy-efficient LEDs to see immediate savings. 

Insulation can help create an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. You'll notice lower heating and cooling costs and everyone in the building will feel fewer drafts or uneven temperatures. 

Understand and Perform Required Routine Maintenance Tasks

You don't have to wait for problems to arise to perform work. Set a schedule for routine maintenance and then stick to it. Include any needed supplies and staff time in budgeting so you aren't left short. 

The major mechanical systems of your physical plant all require some basic maintenance and tune-ups.  HVAC systems need to be cleaned and filters should be changed every month or so. Make sure air conditioning drain lines are clear and free from any clogs before you turn the system on in the summer. You may want to check about preventative maintenance on your drains and sewer lines, too. 

Floors will need to have deep cleaning periodically. Using a surface guard sealer on concrete floors can help you avoid stains and prevent damage to the material. Floor mats are another great line of defense that can help reduce wear and tear and the frequency of regular cleanings. 

Make sure windows and doors are kept clean and free from any defects. UV films can improve the building's appearance and help prevent glare for everyone working inside. 

You can't anticipate everything that could go wrong, so be sure to keep spare parts on hand so that you can fix any issues as they arrive. 

Automate What You Can

Develop a system that makes placing and following up on work orders easy and intuitive. This will help ensure that problems are being addressed as soon as there is a suspected problem and not being left to fester into larger repairs. 

Sensors installed within the building can help you know if something is not working correctly. Use them to monitor everything from room temperatures to machine outputs when possible. 

Maximize the Function and Utility of Every Space

From the storeroom to corporate offices, make the best use of the space you have. This will help you maintain a cohesive and deliberate design throughout the entire facility. It can also reduce clutter, which not only makes spaces appear larger, it also helps workers feel happier and less stressed. Sometimes this means going up instead of out. Evaluate whether there is overhead or ceiling space you can utilize for storage or an elevated mechanical platform. 

No matter what size building your business occupies, you want to ensure it is kept in the best possible condition. Be proactive in your work and find new ways to make maintenance and repairs more efficient. This will help you to have a building that runs smoothly and looks great doing it.