The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area 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 the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
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 safeguard your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This can also help stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions especially in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can 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. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. 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 method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult a professional.