The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency 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 techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, 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. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and aid in improving 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 aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this could affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect with the system again.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.