The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to 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 that you pay a low monthly rate to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some 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 flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This means cleaning up any leaves, sticks 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 crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you begin. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins 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 conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by various factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight 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 issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.