The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is an important part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure you have a few key tools. These include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your home and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system duct. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by various factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect 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 always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that if you have any other issues, or are unsure of the issue, always call in a professional.
