The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have on-hand a few key 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 directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your house and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems especially in the elderly and children. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This 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. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting 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 wrong with your system.
