The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay each month to have your system checked 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 surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.

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

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged 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 ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.

The most common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, but this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.

A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

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

A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.