The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, 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 shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
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 house and switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it could affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker 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 make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades should be checked for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain 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 and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.