The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.