The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as necessary.

It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.

In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power source 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 motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser air. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.

If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve 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 cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles within your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the 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 and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.