The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools available before you start. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, 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 designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and aid in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. 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 you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of 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. Make sure that if you have any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.