The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if needed.

It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the 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, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air conditioner.

It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure you have a few key tools. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.

If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.

It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However If your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.

A typical sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.

A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.