The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure you have several essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.

You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.

After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.

A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate 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 slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.

A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

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

It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.