The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can start removing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. 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 recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial 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 cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears 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.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.