The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.

Once the power is off, you can start taking down any large debris that may be hindering the air condenser. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has built up.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.

When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.

A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid 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 reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Just remember that if you have any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.