The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if 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 clutter will help ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.

First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.

After the power is off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.

The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a garden 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, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail or 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.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will increase 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.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your 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 functioning properly, it could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.

A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Just remember that if you have any other issues or aren’t sure the issue, always call in a professional.