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 an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.

It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power is off, you can start removing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage 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 start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts are clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory ailments.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of reasons. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. The fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.

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