The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is key when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when required.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will 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 it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.

It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.

When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.

In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires professional 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, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.

Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.

It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.

A loss of cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.