The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse with the garden hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. 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 to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. 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 reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.