The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly 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 essential to cut off the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure you have several essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases 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 get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign 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 acts like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive 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 the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating 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 in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.