The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This also helps to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should it could affect your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous 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 a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.