The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.
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 the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the 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 struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the 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 too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker 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 any signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure 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 the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.