The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling 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 where you pay an annual fee to have the system checked, 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 around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly 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.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, 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 a garden 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, examine them for signs of damage. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from 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 working effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary 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 loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.