The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse with the garden hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to 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 debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can impact 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 keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, a blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Check 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 operates as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.