The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly 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 build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.