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 service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.

It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also 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 important to disconnect 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 prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.

When the power is turned off, you can begin to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you start. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.

After you have a proper coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of 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 which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

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

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly it could affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.

The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.

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

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult an expert.