The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker at your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm 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.