The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple 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.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can start clearing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing 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 according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs 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 tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues particularly for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Just remember that if you have any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.