The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around the outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off 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 to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is an excellent way to get into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you start. These include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away 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 sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It has to function correctly to supply 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 is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s an issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.
