The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential 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 checked, repaired or cleaned as needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer 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 important to not use excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is 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. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on that 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. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s recommended to examine the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.
