The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.

It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks 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 airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air cooling.

It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have some 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 in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.

In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.

Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.

It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them 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 can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as it is possible.

The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.