The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of any debris will 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, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.

It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.

Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.

A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This 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. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

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

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult an expert.