The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source 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 over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to 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 eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding 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 is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this 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 decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could 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 pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries 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 control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the lifespan 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 changing your batteries. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.