The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC 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 the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
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 the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and start your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, 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.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as 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 problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system 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 tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.