The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them 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, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and start your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering 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 is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order 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 has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may 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 frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It also increases the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.