The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy 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 essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand 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 instructions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean 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 assist in improving airflow 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.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the life of cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult an expert.