HVAC Maintenance: The Key To Your HVAC Units’ Lifespan

There are many parts of an HVAC system, and they all work together to keep it running. However, all of those pieces are susceptible to damage. While the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) doesn’t name one specific reason for heating and cooling system failures.

However, they and industry experts agree that the main problem is a lack of proper maintenance. When you don’t schedule HVAC servicing, other components can fail. We’re pleased to share these insights and a few different things.

Common Components Affected by Lack of Maintenance

Improper maintenance can damage all parts of your HVAC system, but some components are more susceptible than others.

Clogged Air Filters

Have you noticed how clean and fresh the air in your home is? That is thanks to your air filters. However, if they aren’t replaced frequently enough and become dirty or clogged, it can cause many problems.

You will be dealing with dirtier air, and the restricted airflow will cause your system to work harder than needed. It can cause your energy bills to go up, along with placing stress on the blower motor and other pieces. Ultimately, this can lead to overheating and a total system failure.

Dirty Coils

Within your HVAC system are two types of coils. The evaporator coils and condenser coils can accumulate layers of dirt, grime, and dust over time. If the coils are too dirty, they are unable to transfer heat efficiently. This forces the system to work harder, leading to higher bills, added stress, and premature failure of components like the compressor.

Refrigerant Leaks

The refrigerant in your HVAC system runs your air conditioning unit and keeps your home cool. However, if there is a slow leak in the refrigerant line, you will slowly lose cooling capacity over time. Research from ASHRAE shows that many residential and commercial air conditioners have inadequate refrigerant levels. This causes the system to run inefficiently, leading to compressor failure and a frozen evaporator coil.

Electrical Problems

While you might not notice any outward-facing issues with your system, internal problems can cause a lot of trouble. Failing to schedule HVAC servicing can lead to issues such as worn-out contactors and corroded wiring being overlooked.

If your system suffers from electrical failures, it can cause the system to malfunction or completely shut down. Electrical issues can also be a serious fire hazard.

Clogged Condensate Lines

Your HVAC system works to remove moisture from the air and drain it through a line. If your system doesn’t receive proper scheduled servicing, that line can become clogged with mold and algae growth. This can lead to leaking water, which can trip a safety switch that shuts off your system.

The Consequences of Neglect

If you don’t regularly maintain your HVAC system, you may face many issues and wasted energy. ASHRAE has noted that malfunctioning or ill-maintained building systems waste significant energy. For instance, the average air conditioning unit in a commercial building has 15–25% less airflow than optimal, usually due to a lack of upkeep.

Schedule HVAC Servicing HVAC Today With Smith and Keene

Your HVAC system is essential for keeping your home safe and healthy. When you schedule upkeep of your unit, it ensures that minor problems don’t go unnoticed. You can address issues like electrical problems or clogged condensate lines before they become bigger, costly problems.

Do you need to schedule HVAC maintenance? Contact us today.