The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you 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 when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the crevices and nooks and loosen dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have a few essential tools on hand before you start. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force as the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
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 house and start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your equipment in the best condition possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades must be inspected for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of the issue you should always consult an expert.