The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of 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. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning 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 in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the garden hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. 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 to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working 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 necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.