The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect 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 stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can impact your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication 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 and create other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will help remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in 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 could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and tear. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact an expert.