The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay each month to have your system checked 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 free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.

Clean the Condenser

The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.

In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.

Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, ensure that you have in your possession a few key tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the garden hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.

After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.

When the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.

Cleaning the Ductwork

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

In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.

Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.

It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.

A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts 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 moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.

A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.

Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.

Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.