The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools available before you begin. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a water 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, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the 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 help the coils function more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles found 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 should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should 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 HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.