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. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.

It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

Once the power has been turned off, you can begin taking down any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you start. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins are easily bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.

When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.

Another way to help 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 cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.

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 operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.

A typical sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

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

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.