The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will aid in improving airflow 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.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can be filled with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong 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. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.