The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial 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 where you pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
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 the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
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, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts are in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause 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 respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing 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 works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This 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. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t 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 runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.