The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend 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 at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This means taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force as the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease 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 crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.