The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay each month to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools on hand prior to beginning. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse with a hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts remain 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 prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all dust and crumbs that build up over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates 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 required at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular 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 functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues early, preventing excessive 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, however it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.