The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, 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. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins 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.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles within your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine 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 loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.