The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around the outdoor units free 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 your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help to stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat 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 has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.