The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is called short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.