The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be hindering the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the 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 in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to know 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 can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.