The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned when required.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.

When the power is turned off, you can begin to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can bend easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s 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 set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates 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 component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

The most common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.