The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be hindering the air condenser. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal before you begin. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air travels from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit 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 properly. This can block the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts are in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly, duct cleaning may not be required at all. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.