The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned as necessary.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.

It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser air. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can bend easily.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.

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 conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. 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 reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. 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 airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical element 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 and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as possible.

A typical sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can 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 loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may 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 save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.