The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside 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 may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or 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 it is now time to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you do this, though, make sure you have a few key tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially 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
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.
