The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
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 debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you begin. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both 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 be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.