The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or are unsure about the issue, always call in a professional.