The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you begin. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse with a water hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can bend easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more efficiently.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
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 working in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. The fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.