The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned if required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure you have some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the garden hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This can also help stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its 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 to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.