The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in 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 begin taking down any large objects that could be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and 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 the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is called short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact an expert.