The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this, though, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins are easily bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is 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 transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will help to improve air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this can impact your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing 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. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by 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 referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is wrong with your system.