January is a critical time for facility and property managers. After holiday shutdowns or periods of reduced occupancy, building systems often transition quickly back to full operation just as winter conditions intensify. A post-holiday system check helps ensure HVAC and mechanical equipment are ready to perform reliably before late-winter cold places maximum demand on the system.
Conducting a structured review now allows managers to identify hidden issues, correct control settings, and avoid unexpected disruptions during the coldest stretch of the season.
Why Post-Holiday Reviews Are Essential
Reduced occupancy during the holidays can mask performance issues. Systems may have been operating on reduced schedules, setback temperatures, or temporary control overrides. Once normal operations resume, those changes can cause comfort complaints, inefficiencies, or equipment strain.
A January system check verifies that everything is operating as intended and that no components were affected during downtime. Identifying issues early helps protect equipment and maintain consistent building conditions.
Rooftop Units: What to Inspect First
Rooftop units often experience the greatest exposure during winter. Facility managers should begin by verifying that units are fully operational and responding correctly to control commands.
Key items to review include:
- Sensor accuracy for temperature and airflow
- Damper operation and actuator response
- Signs of moisture intrusion or restricted airflow
Cold weather can reveal sensor failures or mechanical issues that weren’t noticeable during lighter use. Addressing these failures/issues early helps prevent performance drops later in the season.
Boilers and Heating Equipment Checks
Boilers and central heating equipment should be inspected closely following holiday periods. Reduced runtime can allow small problems to develop unnoticed, especially in colder conditions.
Important checks include:
- Verifying proper startup and shutdown sequences
- Confirming pressure and temperature readings
- Inspecting for signs of frozen or stressed components
Ensuring boilers operate within proper parameters helps maintain steady heat and reduces the risk of late-winter failures.
Controls and BAS Scheduling Review
Building automation systems and controls deserve special attention after holiday schedules. Temporary overrides or altered time-of-day programs may still be in place, causing systems to run inefficiently or at the wrong times.
Facility managers should confirm:
- Occupancy schedules are reset correctly
- Setpoints align with current building use
- Sensors and communication points are reporting accurately
Incorrect BAS schedules can lead to uneven heating, unnecessary runtime, and increased wear on equipment. A January review ensures controls are supporting—not hindering—system performance.
Watch for Frozen or Weather-Related Issues
Cold temperatures can expose vulnerabilities that weren’t present earlier in the season. Frozen lines, failed sensors, and compromised components often surface once systems return to full demand.
Inspecting exposed areas, mechanical rooms, and rooftop equipment helps identify risks before they lead to shutdowns. Early intervention reduces downtime and helps protect building operations.
Prepare Systems for Peak Winter Demand
Late winter often brings the most sustained heating demand of the year. A post-holiday system check ensures equipment is ready to handle that load without interruption.
By addressing issues now, facility managers can reduce emergency service calls, improve occupant comfort, and extend equipment lifespan. Planning ahead also allows repairs or adjustments to be scheduled on a controlled timeline rather than during urgent situations.
Partner With Althoff Industries, Inc. for Post-Holiday System Reviews
A thorough post-holiday system check lays the groundwork for reliable winter performance. Althoff Industries, Inc. supports facility and property managers with professional HVAC and mechanical system evaluations designed to catch issues early and keep buildings running smoothly.
If you’re preparing your facility for the remainder of winter, contact Althoff Industries, Inc. today to schedule a post-holiday system review. Challenges accepted!