System Maintenance
Why Maintenance:
Proper maintenance is essential to keep your HVAC system operating efficiently, performing reliably, and lasting as long as possible. While maintenance approaches can vary, every service should focus on three key components: the condenser, the air handler or furnace, and the airflow.
The main goal of HVAC maintenance is to identify potential issues early and provide solutions before they develop into costly breakdowns or system failures. Skipping important steps during maintenance can ultimately work against the homeowner’s best interests.
As a customer, you can have peace of mind knowing your HVAC system is fully prepared for both summer and winter, ensuring comfort and reliable performance throughout the year.
Overview
Condenser Section:
Many homeowners like you benefit from quality HVAC maintenance, so let’s break down what a thorough summer maintenance should include—starting with the condenser (outdoor unit).
The condenser should be carefully disassembled, and the coil cleaned using an alkaline-based coil cleaner. This chemical reaction with the metal is essential to effectively lift dirt, dust, grease, and other debris from the coil. Simply rinsing with water won’t achieve the deep clean needed. Think of it like washing your hair: if your hair is dusty, just rinsing won’t fully clean it—you need shampoo to break down the buildup. The same principle applies to the coil; the chemical acts like a “shampoo” that lifts grime away.
Equally important is rinsing the coil thoroughly to remove all cleaning chemicals. If left behind, these chemicals can become corrosive and damage the coil over time.
During maintenance, all electrical components should be carefully inspected for proper function and signs of wear. Wires must be checked for pinches, burns, or abrasions and repaired as necessary. Connections should be tight and secure, with wiring organized and protected from heat and pinch points. Copper piping also needs inspection for leaks or oil spots that could indicate future problems.
Finally, the technician should measure and record critical system parameters—operating pressures, line temperatures, sub-cooling, and superheat—to provide a complete picture of the refrigeration circuit’s health.
The Indoor Unit:
Whether your indoor unit is located in the attic, closet, or basement, important maintenance steps still apply. During summer service, the condensate drain line must be thoroughly cleaned and cleared of any buildup to prevent water backups that could lead to damage to your home or equipment. The primary drain pan should also be cleaned, and a moldistat or bacteriostatic treatment applied to help prevent future mold and bacterial growth, keeping both the pan and drain line clean and clear.
The evaporator coil should be inspected for dirt and debris. In some cases, a special non-rinse cleaner is applied to remove surface contaminants without the need for additional rinsing.
All electrical connections, wiring, and components should be carefully checked to ensure proper operation and safety.
Finally, the unit’s cabinet should be inspected for any signs of microbial growth, which should be communicated clearly to the homeowner along with possible causes and recommendations for prevention.
The Ductwork:
The ductwork should be thoroughly inspected for any issues such as kinks, air leaks, condensation, damage, or disconnected sections. One of the most common areas for leaks is where the plenum connects to the unit. This is also a perfect opportunity to discuss any airflow problems you’ve noticed in your space with the technician. Many ductwork issues stem from improper balancing and may require a more detailed inspection using specialized tools.
Have questions about our maintenance procedures or concerns about maintenance performed by someone else? No problem—feel free to reach out anytime. We're here to help!