The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air conditioner.

First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.

When the power is turned off and you are able to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.

The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, ensure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.

If the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.

In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.

Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.

If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.

It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.

A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

In addition, a clogged filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.

Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.

A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This 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 breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system 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 again.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact a professional.