The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you begin. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse with the water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. 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 regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues 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 having other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.