The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have some essential tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then 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 cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts are clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look 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 leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries 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 control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.