The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when needed.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done 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 while cleaning.

When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure you have several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with a hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs 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 low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing methods in order 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 important element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.

A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or aren’t sure the issue, always call in an expert.