The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will help to improve airflow 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 aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.