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. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
It’s also recommended to do a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect the power source 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 keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure that you have in your possession some essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse with a water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can bend easily.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air travels 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 could become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter regularly. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts in good shape. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer 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. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as it is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.