The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.

It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power is off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be hindering the condenser air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.

The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you begin. These include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable 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 shape, you can return to your house and start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.

Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation 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 such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However If your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as is possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.