The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in 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 break down. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure you have some essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and then rinse using the 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, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
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 can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure the issue you should always consult an expert.