Energy Efficiency | March 22, 2023

3 Common Concerns for Your HVAC Units Going Into Spring

3 Common Concerns for Your  HVAC Units Going into Spring 

HVAC systems regulate and move heated and cooled air throughout residential and commercial buildings, from homes, to offices, to indoor stadiums. With spring around the corner, it is important to get your units checked at the end of one season and the start of another to ensure that it will function properly.

Clogged Filters

A common concern for your HVAC system going into the spring is clogged filters. When ignored, your HVAC unit is likely not running at its most efficient, losing energy and not providing a comfortable environment for your employees or guests. When prolonged, this can result in major damage to the rest of the system. If the filters are clogged it can increase pressure in the ducts that can result in leaks. Many air filters should be replaced every two to three months but check your manufacturer specifications to find out the best schedule for your particular equipment.

Dirty Coils

Most HVAC units have two different types of coils, an evaporator coil and a compressor coil. The evaporator coil collects dust and dander and when it becomes dirty, it is difficult for your system to keep your building a cool and comfortable temperature. The evaporator coil on your HVAC unit should likely be cleaned at least twice a year, or as often as the manufacturer recommends. After the winter, compressor coils can become caked with mud and other grime that can overwork an outdoor unit, so it is important to remember to clean those coils out as well.

Debris Around the Condenser

A condenser is the outdoor portion of an air conditioner or heating pump that either releases or collects heat depending on the time of year. Depending on where the condenser is placed, you may need to clean the area around it once every few weeks, removing any debris such as leaves and sticks or trash that may have blown in on the wind. An outdoor condenser is one of the most important parts of an HVAC system, so routine cleaning around it can prevent damage from occurring and keep your system running at its most efficient

How Can an HVAC Consultant Like Mantis Help

Mantis Innovation’s HVAC asset management program helps clients capture the condition of existing equipment including the make, model, age, and performance of each unit. Then, by capturing and analyzing this data, a program manager can prioritize repairs, replacements, and upgrades to reduce energy use and spend, and help companies achieve their sustainability goals. When it comes time to execute the work, Mantis can design a system replacement or retrofit, buy the labor and materials using an optimized procurement strategy, and leverage available incentives to drive down project cost.