The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are 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 is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, make sure you have some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is crucial 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 following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s 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.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. 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. The air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver 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 equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance 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. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.