The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This will include taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air travels from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause respiratory and allergy conditions especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating 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 be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with the compressor. This could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Additionally, a blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. 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 always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can 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 help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause 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.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about the issue, always call in a professional.