The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when required.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core 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 important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll 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 for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.