The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large objects that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure you have several essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force since the fins are easily bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This can also help stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow 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 cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this could affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your 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 can also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have 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. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
