The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure that you have on-hand a few key 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 according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
If the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all dust and crumbs that build up over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of the issue you should always consult an expert.