The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when needed.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air cooling.

First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you start. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.

If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory problems.

It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles 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 a critical component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as possible.

The most common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended 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 can check for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.

A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.