The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.

It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.

The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.

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

When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around 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 improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of reasons. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can 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 pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. A well-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 observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.