The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power supply 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 motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available before you begin. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force since the fins are easily bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly in 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 is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan 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 cool all year. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.