The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.

It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air cooling.

It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.

After the power has been turned off, you can start removing any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has built up.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

After you have a proper coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is 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. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.

The most common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.

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 is not excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the life of your 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 comfortable all year round. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult a professional.