The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and remove dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you start. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation 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, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.