The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.

When the power is turned off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Before you begin however, ensure you have several essential tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.

Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.

It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element 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, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.

A loss of cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Additionally, a blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.

A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Just remember that if you have any other issues or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact a professional.