The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.

First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the water hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage 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 return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.

Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory problems.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, 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 use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should it could affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.

A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.

A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.