The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for sure is 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 present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.