The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay each month to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when required.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.

The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. This will 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, then rinse it off using a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.

When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as possible.

A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant 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 and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.

A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to 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 thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.