The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, 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. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure you have several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with the water hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to 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 a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and aid in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of 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 poses health concerns for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.