The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also recommended to do 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 airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this, though, 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 as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.