The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay each month to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin removing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and start your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This also helps to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can be filled with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
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 operating in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could 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 near the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.