The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as 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 outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in 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 shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with 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.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.