The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding 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 necessary.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the 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, you can begin taking down any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, 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 are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year 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. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.