The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges each month to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in 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 an important part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task can avoid 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 accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin removing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this however, make sure you have a few key tools. This will 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 product’s label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
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 turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can be filled with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that if you have any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.
