The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance 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 your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use too much force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and working well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing 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 possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, 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 need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.
