The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools available before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs 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 tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.