The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools available prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure 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 can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most 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 under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys 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 remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.