The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure 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, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will 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, then rinse it off using the water hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force as the fins can bend easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This could block air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA will use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors will get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or 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 signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of 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 warm all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of the issue, always call in an expert.
