The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin 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 been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools on hand before you start. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is moved from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause 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 cause respiratory and allergy conditions especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.