The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as required.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start taking down any large objects that could be blocking the condenser air. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well 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 accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that have become 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 may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of 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 a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system again.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.