The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being flooded during cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure you have a few key tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.