The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed 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 surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you begin. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse with the garden hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones 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 performance of the coil.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order 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 must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a serious issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.