The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in the elderly and children. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is known 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 replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.
