The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
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 is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large debris that may be hindering the air condenser. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can impact your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged 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 reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life 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 comfortable all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.