The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for 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, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This means sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have on-hand several essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce 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 a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good 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 components. 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 water near the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch 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 no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
