The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by 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 assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This could block air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions particularly in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. However If your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to 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 the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and make sure 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 costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.