The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools available before you start. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its 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 been tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.