The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life of your air cooling.

It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

When the power is turned off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any leaves, sticks 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 reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a garden hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.

When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit 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 typical indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.