The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay a low monthly rate to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.

It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.

Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using a garden hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.

Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This could block air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.

A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year. Make sure that if you have any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.