The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned if required.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

Once the power has been turned off, you can start taking down any large debris that could be hindering the condenser air. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.

Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A typical sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.

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