The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools available before you start. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. 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 who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact a professional.