The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when needed.

It’s also recommended to do some of the 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 the proper flow of air.

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 fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air cooling.

It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.

Once the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can bend easily.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.

When the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

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 the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are 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 be filled with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory ailments.

It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.

The most common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again 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 is not overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact an expert.