The holiday season presents a unique opportunity for schools to focus on facilities maintenance and improvement. With campuses quieter than usual, it’s the perfect time to address maintenance tasks that can enhance safety, efficiency, and the overall learning environment. This is especially critical for California schools, where regulations and environmental factors play a significant role in facility management.

Why Prioritize Maintenance During the Holidays?

1. Minimal Disruption: With students and staff away, maintenance crews can work uninterrupted, completing tasks more efficiently.

2. Seasonal Preparations: Preparing facilities for the winter months ensures safety and comfort when schools reopen.

3. Cost Efficiency: Tackling maintenance during downtime can prevent costly emergency repairs during the school year.

Key Maintenance Tasks for the Holiday Season

1. HVAC System Check and Maintenance

California schools often face fluctuating temperatures during winter. Ensuring your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are in optimal condition is essential for energy efficiency and comfort.

Tasks: Replace filters, clean ducts, and check for leaks or inefficiencies.

Benefit: Proper maintenance can lower energy costs and extend the lifespan of your systems.

2. Lighting Upgrades and Repairs

Shorter days mean increased reliance on indoor and outdoor lighting. The holidays are an ideal time to transition to LED lighting, which is more energy-efficient and compliant with California’s AB2208 legislation.

Tasks: Replace outdated bulbs, inspect lighting fixtures, and consider installing motion sensors.

Benefit: Improved lighting enhances campus safety and reduces energy costs. This also aligns with sustainable facilities management practices.

Read more about AB2208 and how to make it a seamless transition here --> Lighting Efficiency and Your Campus: What You Need to Know About LED Upgrades 

3. Deep Cleaning and Sanitization

Maintaining a clean environment is crucial, especially with the ongoing emphasis on health and safety in schools. The following are some of the key areas that we commonly see benefit from deep cleanings over the holiday break:

Tasks: Deep clean classrooms, restrooms, and high-touch areas(i.e. doorknobs, desktops, keyboards); polish floors and/or thoroughly vacuum carpets.

Benefit: Reduces illness, allergens, and also improves indoor air quality(IAQ) leading to a fresh and sanitized campus which promotes a positive atmosphere for students and staff alike.

4. Outdoor Maintenance

California’s diverse climate means outdoor facilities need regular care to remain safe and functional. Proactive maintenance can ensure your campus remains accessible and safe for students and staff year-round.

Tasks: Inspect and repair playground equipment, clean gutters, trim trees, and ensure proper drainage. Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or wind, can exacerbate existing issues, making timely inspections even more critical.

Benefit: This proactive approach allows schools to address potential hazards reducing the risk of accidents and liability.

5. Energy Management System (EMS) Updates

Integrating or updating an EMS can help schools monitor and optimize energy use more effectively. This process is a key element of facilities assessment and planning.

Tasks: Install or calibrate systems to track energy consumption in real-time. Incorporate features like automated scheduling for lighting and HVAC systems to maximize efficiency during off-hours. Use insights from EMS data to identify areas for further energy-saving upgrades.

Benefit: Reducing energy waste supports sustainability goals and lowers utility bills, contributing to sustainable facilities management. An EMS also provides valuable data that can inform future upgrades and align with broader sustainability initiatives. Implementing these systems during the holiday break minimizes disruptions to school operations while setting the stage for long-term efficiency. 

Planning Ahead for a Productive Holiday Maintenance Schedule

1. Assess Current Needs: Conduct a walkthrough to identify priority areas requiring attention. Facilities assessment and planning during this time are critical for the effective execution of this and any other planned project. 

2. Set a Budget: Allocate resources to cover both urgent repairs and long-term improvements.

3. Coordinate with Vendors: Schedule contractors and order supplies early to avoid holiday delays.

4. Communicate with Staff: Inform your team of scheduled maintenance to ensure transparency and cooperation.

Partnering with Experts for Seamless Execution

HBM specializes in helping schools navigate facilities maintenance with minimal disruption. As one of the leading facilities management companies in California, our tailored solutions ensure that your campus is safe, efficient, and ready for the challenges of the upcoming year. Whether it’s LED lighting upgrades, HVAC optimization, building maintenance services, or groundskeeping, our team is here to support you.

By leveraging the holiday season for facilities maintenance, schools can create a safer, more efficient environment while reducing long-term costs. With proper planning and the right expertise, the holiday break can be transformed into a productive period for campus improvement. Ready to get started? Contact HBM today and make the most of your holiday maintenance window.

Additional Resources: 

- Self Assessment Questionnaire