The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be hindering the air condenser. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools available before you begin. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily 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 items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This can also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of reasons. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.