The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated 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 accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the garden hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to help the coils function more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This will also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of the issue you should always consult an expert.