The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with the garden hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, a blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.