The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay each month to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. 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 acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.