The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is 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. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.