The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is 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 have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools available before you start. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.