The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges each month to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can start removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you start. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.