The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
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 areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure you have some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, 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 the water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can start your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and aid in improving air flow 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.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of reasons. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact a professional.