The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
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, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large objects that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure you have several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and aid in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its 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 has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find 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 it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.