The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if necessary.

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 surrounding outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air cooling.

In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.

Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.

If 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 start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could 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 cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some 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, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.

A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.

Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Make sure to contact a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.