The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for 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’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save 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 accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way 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 built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to 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, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.