The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay 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 the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using a water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. 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 leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
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 comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.
