The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if necessary.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.

First and foremost, it is essential to cut 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 protect your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure you have a few key tools. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are tightly 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 accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.

A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.