The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital 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 lifespan of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup, you can switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and 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 is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check 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 can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.