The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.

In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.

After the power has been shut off it is now time to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.

The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.

Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory problems.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, it can affect your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.

A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that have become blocked 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 recommendations of the manufacturer.

A blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of the issue you should always consult a professional.