The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.

It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.

Clean the Condenser

The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.

First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.

Once the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.

Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand several essential tools. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse with the garden hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.

After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.

When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.

Cleaning the Ductwork

Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.

Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts clean. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will help to improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.

It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates 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 be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.

A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A blocked filter could cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. 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 look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call a professional.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.

Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.

It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. The fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent 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 way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.

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