The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start removing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This means taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like 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 in the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can impact your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A decrease in 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 insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in 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 is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.