The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.

It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off 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, you can begin removing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off using a garden hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

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 used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.

After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent clogging, which can 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 vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.

It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important component of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.

The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system 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 it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact an expert.