The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

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

When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you begin. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.

Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.

It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. 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 problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate 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 to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.