The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges a low monthly rate to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if necessary.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.

The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools available before you begin. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.

If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is transported from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This also helps to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as possible.

A common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or are unsure about the issue you should always consult an expert.