The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding 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 annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan 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 in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has built up.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse with a hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can bend easily.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.

A loss of cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.