The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges a low monthly rate to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if required.

It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks 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 in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.

The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools available prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.

A typical sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Additionally, a blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to 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 an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about the issue, always call in an expert.