The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.

First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure 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 can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should it could affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape 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 a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the thermostat’s sensors will get dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.