The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This will include taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure you have some essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
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 the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this could affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. 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. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning 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. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system again.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional if you are having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.