The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an annual 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 surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate 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 essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.

After the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.

Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.

In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important component of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.

The most common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by various factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.

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 has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact an expert.