The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.

In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power 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 keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.

Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have on-hand several essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.

If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of 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 contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

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 crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential 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 the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.

A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside 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 on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system again.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.