The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when 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 outdoor units clear of debris will promote 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 the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your 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.
Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools available before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not 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 ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and help to improve air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are protected from moisture getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.