HVAC Cleaning Checklist
March 28, 2022As the seasons shift from Winter to Summer, it is an ideal time to take advantage of the milder temperatures by taking a look at the performance of your HVAC systems. Setting aside time to inspect your HVAC system is imperative for the HVAC’s performance level to operate at maximum efficiency. This time of year is also a smart time to install an industrial HVAC system for your establishment!
Here is a brief overview of the components that help your HVAC system run, understanding these components and their functions makes annual maintenance that much easier to complete! An HVAC system is an explosion-proof unit consisting of 9 essential components which include an Air Return, Filter, Exhaust Outlets, Ducts, Electrical Elements, Outdoor Unit, Compressor, Coils, and Blower. These components are responsible for functioning together as a team to regulate the heating, cooling, and ventilation of your home or establishment. Whether you live in a single-family home in Baton Rouge, a lakeside mansion near Hammond, or work in any kind of industrial or commercial building, you will still need a high-quality HVAC system with an explosion-proof air conditioner to regulate intense temperatures in the deep South.
Here is your efficient, simple, and quick HVAC maintenance check-list:
1. Filters:
We hear this word all the time when our cars or other appliances require cleaning, and your HVAC system is no exception. The purpose of the filter on an industrial HVAC system is to filtrate the air from pollutants like mold spores, dust, or any other toxic particles. Keeping your air clean is paramount for your health and the health of anyone in your establishment. It is recommended to check these filters on a quarterly basis (around 4 times a year) if your unit operates in an office building or a relatively clean environment. Alternatively, if your HVAC system operates in a higher-trafficked environment, like a restaurant or auto shop, then it is best to clean/replace your filter more frequently.
2. Clean the Outside Area:
The outdoor container housing your HVAC unit should be clean and free of debris because the debris can clog vents and block or reduce airflow. Remove any grass, mud, leaves, stickers, litter, or other distracting materials from your vents and coils. While you’re cleaning those coils, take a look at the coil’s integrity and straighten out any bent sections. If you’re cleaning a cabinet HVAC system, like a cabinet cooler, then it is a good idea to clean your cabinet with water and mild detergent.
3. Clean the Inside Area:
Similar to the outside area, the inside area of your HVAC system is equally as important to keep clean. Remember those 9 essential components that make up your HVAC system? It is a good idea to take a closer look at some of these components so your system continues cooling or heating properly. Mainly, you only need to focus your attention on the HVAC’s blower fans, evaporator coils, and control panel. At this point, you can also lubricate any moving parts of the HVAC system, such as fans.
4. Cooling System:
The refrigerant on the HVAC system is its cooling mechanism and it plays a vital role in running your HVAC unit at optimum health. Simply, you want to ensure it is capturing and releasing the proper amount of heat. For this step, it is best to hire a HVAC technician to look at the refrigerant (also known as “charge”) and to check for any leaks.
5. Calibrate:
This one is pretty simple! Test all of your system controls to make sure they are working properly. Ensure your HVAC system turns on and off without any issues, and after that it is best to calibrate all of your thermostats so they are outputting correct temperature readings.
6. Check and Clear Drain Lines:
Last, but certainly not least you should check your condensate drains. A drain’s function is to drain fluids freely, so take a moment to ensure they’re clear of obstruction. It’s not a bad idea to apply an algaecide to prevent unwanted algae growth, too!
Safe Air Technology is your experienced resource for setting up and maintaining industrial HVAC/R systems. Contact us today to order one of our explosion proof industrial grade HVAC/R systems, cabinet coolers, condensing units, window units, air handlers, or any other product. We look forward to hearing from you!