The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.

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

After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools on hand before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from 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 effectively.

When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.

Another way to help 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 messes that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory ailments.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter could cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of the issue, always call in an expert.