The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges a low monthly rate to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned if required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with crevice tools is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the 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. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Additionally, a blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.
