The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned if required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure 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 your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.