The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure you have some essential tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This also helps to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked 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 possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.