The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure 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 will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start removing any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can 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. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact a professional.