The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned if required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
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, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be hindering the air condenser. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse with the water hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 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 the home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this could affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease 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. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.