The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air cooling.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you start. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will aid in improving airflow 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.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest 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 working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that could 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 could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. 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 find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or unsure of what is wrong with your system.