The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific 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 in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.