The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power 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 prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to get into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you start. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins are easily bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors will get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan 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 warm all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.