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 offer a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase 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 in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.

The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using a water hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.

It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.

When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air 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 network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This could block air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This can also help stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.

A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.

Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of the issue, always call in a professional.