The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools available before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using a garden hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. 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. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This also helps to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning 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 excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact an expert.
