The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut 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 any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
If your system 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 will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.