The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if required.

It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.

The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you start. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using a water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can bend easily.

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

After you have a proper coil and fin setup, you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact a professional.