The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial 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 service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.