The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse with the garden hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure 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 conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles within your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a serious issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also crucial to examine 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. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend 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 then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.