The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay a low monthly rate to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse with a water 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, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts in good shape. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective 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. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Just remember that if you have any other issues, or are unsure about the issue, always call in a professional.