The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.

It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure you have several essential tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can bend easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from 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 help the coils function more efficiently.

If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.

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 get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.

A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing 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 also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and 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 signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult a professional.