The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid 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 needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your 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 start taking down any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can 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. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a reduction in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. 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 can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.
