The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if needed.

It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance 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 flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated during cleaning.

When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.

Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with 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. The air travels from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can block 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. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by several different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.