The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, however this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts 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 regularly. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system again.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.
