The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned if needed.

It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.

It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has built up.

The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools available before you begin. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or 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 also to help the coils function more efficiently.

When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.

The most common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged 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 manufacturer’s recommendations.

A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

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

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.