The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools on hand before you begin. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other contaminants. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having any other problems or unsure of what is the issue with your system.