The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance 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 flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse with the water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can return to your home and start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts are in good condition and function properly. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor 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 situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial 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 be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. 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 tear. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.