The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with 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 have your system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include 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 inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart 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 relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you start. 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 essential not to use too much force as the fins can bend easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates in your ductwork and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact a professional.