The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and start your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again 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 excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.
