The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.

It’s also a good idea to perform 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 any debris to ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.

First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has built up.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. 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 label, then rinse with a water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.

Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. The air travels from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts clean. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can impact your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.

A common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

Additionally, a blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.

A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in 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 breakers.

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

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.

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