The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser 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. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system duct. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts have been 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 examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in equipment downtime. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.
