The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as 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 debris will promote the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using a water hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force as the fins can bend easily.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.

If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and start your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.

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

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.

A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Additionally, a blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.

Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could 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 compressor that is running and then contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can 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 aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat 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 communicate with the system once more.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.