The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the lifespan of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s 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.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup, you can switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions especially in the elderly and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working effectively. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to connect 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 too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find 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 it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It can also prolong the life of heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or are unsure about the issue, always call in a professional.
