The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the life of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the garden hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
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 help to improve air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues particularly in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter is blocked, it can 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.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in 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 both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.