The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse with the garden hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
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 home and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block 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 professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that if you have any other issues or aren’t sure the issue, always call in an expert.