The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will 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 the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is wrong with your system.