The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
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 will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand several essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using a water hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will help to improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine 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 appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system 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.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.