The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have some essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning and 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 the garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.