The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This can also help prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are 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 collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.
