The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
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 is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component 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 extend the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you do this however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off using a hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, go back to your home and start your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and aid in improving air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are protected from moisture getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should it could affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor 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 loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not excessively exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.
