The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air cooling.

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

After the power has been shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the garden hose. It is essential 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 and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.

Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory issues.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to 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. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.

A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.