The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some 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 flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be hindering the condenser air. This means taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you start. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be 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 low-cost 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, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could become loaded with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. You can be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, but this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working 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. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact a professional.
