The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.

You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.

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

Once the power is off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.

The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can bend easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.

Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.

Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory issues.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly it could affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. 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, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.

A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.

It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine 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 will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It also increases the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.