The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has built up.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can be filled with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems, particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat 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 connect with the system again.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.