The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
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 and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and 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. The air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This can also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air 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.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.
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 have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. 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 air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed 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 an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.