The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

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

It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with the water hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

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

Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have built up 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 insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates in your ductwork and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as possible.

The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

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

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.