The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as necessary.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure you have several essential tools. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse with a hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove 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.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. 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 hvac maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.