The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned when needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This can also help stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
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. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact an expert.