The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.

When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced 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. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.

A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.