The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the 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 it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools on hand before you start. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm 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 also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and aid in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause 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 poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.