The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.

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 areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.

In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.

Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.

The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools available before you begin. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a garden hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones 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 set up, you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory issues.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.

A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.