The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

It’s also recommended to do some 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 proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.

First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.

Once the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.

The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools on hand before you begin. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.

When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions especially in the elderly and children. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can impact your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.

A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

Additionally, a blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in 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 also look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. The fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. 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.