The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.

It’s also recommended to do some of the 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 airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.

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

The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you start. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.

Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause 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 trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.

A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great 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 can also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of 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

The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or aren’t sure the issue, always call in an expert.