The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.

When the power is turned off and you are able to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you start. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off using a garden hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.

Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.

In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.

Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into 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. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

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

It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.