The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.

It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.

In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large objects that could be blocking the condenser air. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.

Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.