The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

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 debris to promote proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.

It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.

Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have the necessary tools on hand before you start. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.

When the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.

A loss of cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if 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 in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.

A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

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

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.