The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned as necessary.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air cooling.

It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

When the power is turned off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force as the fins can bend easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail, rocks 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 to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.

In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems especially in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system again.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the lifespan of heating and cooling 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. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of the issue you should always consult an expert.