The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay each month to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance 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 flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.

First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.

The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with a water hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, 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 cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and start your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.

Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and 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 is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Make sure that if you have any other issues or are unsure of the issue, always call in an expert.