The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can start taking down any large debris that may be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It’s 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 are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it could affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In addition, a clogged filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect 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 check the thermostat first when there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.