The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as needed.

It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

After the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. 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, and then rinse it off using a hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm 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 aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts are in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.

Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific 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 operating in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as possible.

A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

A blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.