The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
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 around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure 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, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. 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 malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for signs 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 space. It also increases the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.