The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.

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

After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.

Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are in good condition and function properly. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.

Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning 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 assist in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it could affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.

The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.

Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both 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 reconnect with the system.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.

Explore More

Innovations in Heating and Cooling

November 14, 2024 0 Comments 0 tags

Innovations in Heating and Cooling It’s not a secret that your car’s engine is most effective when it operates at a warm temperature. This heat must go somewhere. Radiators are

Geothermal HVAC

November 1, 2024 0 Comments 0 tags

Geothermal HVAC Unlike traditional HVAC systems that rely on natural gas, fuel oil propane, electricity or fuel oil geothermal can provide two-in-one heating and cooling. The temperature of the earth

Why Buy a New Air Conditioner?

October 16, 2024 0 Comments 0 tags

Why Buy a New Air Conditioner? You can save money by purchasing a new AC system. A good model and the right size will help you to keep your energy