The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned as necessary.

It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.

It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.

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

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.

Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. 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, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.

In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.

Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.

It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential element 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, this can impact your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.

A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.

The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.