HVAC Checklist – Seasonal

Many modern HVAC systems are complex and require the skills of a trained professional. If your on-site maintenance staff is not fully familiar with HVAC systems, hire a professional before you are faced with a system failure or water management crisis.

We have included some steps you can take to to increase the life of your equipment and decrease the need for a trained professional; please read more to learn how:

• Condensate drain pan overflows frequently occur the first time the unit is turned on in the spring because dust and dirt have accumulated over the winter months. However, overflows can occur any time the drain becomes plugged to the extent that the condenser removes water from the air faster than the drain line discharges the water.
• Clean prior to first use with compressed air or by pouring a water-bleach solution down the drain line until it flows freely.
• A float cutoff switch that will shut down the system if the pan doesn’t drain properly is a great safety feature that can prevent a flood from the overflowing drain pan.
• Inspect duct work seasonally for cleanliness, insulation, and tight connections.
• Fresh air supply ducts must be kept free of debris and, if necessary, filtered at the inlet.
• Inspect filters and duct work to ensure adequate fresh air supply.
• Make immediate repairs at the first sign of condensation or rust. Any rust, condensation, or other signs of moisture on duct work can be a sign of a serious water management problem.
• Furnace burners should be inspected at the beginning of each heating season, and regularly throughout the heating months.
• Visually inspect the flame, which should be blue with a light yellow tip. If the flame is not this color, or, if the heating unit does not ignite promptly, contact an experienced HVAC  professional.
• Regularly check combustion gas exhaust components (chimney s, vents and connective pipes) to ensure proper venting of combustion byproducts.
• Check the heat exchangers seasonally.
• Cracked heat exchangers can create health, safety and water management problems. If checking these items is beyond the skills of your maintenance staff, be sure your HVAC professional is experienced in combustion appliance operation and safety.
• Check for back flow of combustion gasses, carbon monoxide levels and other indicators of improper heating system performance.