The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This will also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles within your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise 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 frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate 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 too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.