The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges each month to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. 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 getting overloaded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can bend easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to help the coils function more efficiently.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all dust and crumbs that build up over time and assist in improving airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond 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.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.