The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much 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 objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and help to improve air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as it is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for any signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.