The Importance of HVAC Maintenance

When it is about your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as needed.

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

Clean the Condenser

The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.

It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.

After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.

The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand several essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.

You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.

After you have a proper coil and fin setup, you can switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.

Clean the Ductwork

Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.

Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis 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 frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.

Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.

Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.

It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.

Check the Compressor

The compressor is an important component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.

A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.

A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.

Check the Thermostat

It’s not too surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.

Inaccurate Temperature Readings

Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.

A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.

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 reconnect with the system.

Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly 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 ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.

Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.

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