The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and 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 since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure 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 cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut 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 an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.