The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

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

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off it is now time to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using a garden hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to 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 assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean 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 in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential 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 wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating 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 be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular 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 and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

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

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.

A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This 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.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure the issue, always call in a professional.