The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is a vital component 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 prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin however, ensure you have a few key tools. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up, you can turn on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts are in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been sealed properly, 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 tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can 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 pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
