The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired 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 areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools available before you start. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended to get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may 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 employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of reasons. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.
