The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned if needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This will include cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you start. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and start your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to 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 distributing it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator inside the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. 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 that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases microbes that can harm people suffering from respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. If the filter is blocked, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.