The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned if necessary.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks 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 in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.

When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, it can affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

In addition, a clogged filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect 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 any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

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

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.