The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession several essential 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 according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the garden hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or 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 to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and aid in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as it is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by several different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries 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’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.