As winter approaches, maintenance teams in schools and municipalities face the crucial task of preparing facilities to endure the season’s challenges. Winter can take a toll on equipment and infrastructure if not adequately prepared. Proactive preparation not only ensures safety and comfort but also helps avoid costly repairs and equipment downtime.

Here are some essential steps to get your facilities winter-ready, and how HelixIntel’s Work Order Management tools can help keep your team on track.

1. Heating System Inspections
   Heating systems work overtime in winter, so it’s vital to inspect and service them well in advance. Check boilers, radiators, and HVAC units for signs of wear or malfunction, and replace filters to maximize efficiency. Consider setting up a routine inspection plan with regular maintenance tasks to address issues before they lead to outages. Keep reading for suggestions on how to do this in HelixIntel!
   
   
   • Did you know? The National School Plant Management Association (NSPMA) recommends routine heating inspections before and throughout the season to reduce breakdowns and improve energy efficiency. Preventive maintenance now can save both time and budget when it’s needed most.
   
   
   
2. Weatherproof Doors and Windows
   Sealing gaps around windows and doors helps prevent cold air from seeping in, keeping indoor temperatures stable and energy bills in check. Ensure that doors are equipped with proper weather stripping and check for any areas needing repairs to avoid drafts.
   
   
3. Clearing Drains and Gutters
   Clogged drains and gutters can lead to ice build-up, causing potential leaks, structural damage, and hazardous conditions on walkways. Clear leaves and debris from all drains, and install gutter guards if possible to keep water flowing smoothly during snow melts.

Boost Winter Prep with HelixIntel’s Preventive Maintenance Tasks 

Managing all these tasks can feel daunting, but HelixIntel makes it easy to stay organized with tailored Preventive Maintenance (PM) Schedules. By setting up PM Schedules within HelixIntel, your team track of each essential winter prep item and get reminders to ensure no task is overlooked.

Using HelixIntel’s PM Scheduler, maintenance teams can:

• Generate recurring work orders for inspections, repairs, and routine checks to ensure nothing falls behind schedule.
  
  
• Track work order completion in real-time, making it easy to confirm that winter prep is progressing as planned.
  
  
• Access equipment histories to see past repairs or maintenance needs, helping the team make informed decisions about what requires extra attention.
  
  

Prepare for a Smooth Season

Winter preparation is more than a checklist—it’s a strategy to ensure safety, comfort, and operational efficiency. By implementing a proactive approach with HelixIntel, maintenance teams can safeguard their facilities and be ready for whatever the season brings.