The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as required.
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 around outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure you have some essential tools. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way 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 home and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating 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 licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.
