The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and 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 turning off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much 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 items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the life 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. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.