The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.

It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at 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 it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more efficiently.

Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the 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 insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.

The most common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A blocked filter could cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.

A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.

Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.