The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can start removing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can impact your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to 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. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear 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 HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is the issue with your system.