The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re 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, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can be filled with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. 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 determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed 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 technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any 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 rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact an expert.