The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as it is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor may be working 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. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of the issue you should always consult a professional.
