The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

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

First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse with a 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 inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

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

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.

A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not 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 future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.