The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off using the water hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.