The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges each month to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This also helps to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly it could affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.