The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, 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 you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned when needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes 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 your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
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 home and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems especially in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
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 properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can 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 pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is called short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.