The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner 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.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is moved from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, but this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.