The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut 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 safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive 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 thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins 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. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This clogs the air filters and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, however this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, 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’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the life of heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.