The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include 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 that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools available before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and 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 with the water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts clean. 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. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor 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 important component of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause unnecessary 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 breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
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 too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure 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, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.