The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about 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. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure 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, your system will struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air cooling.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being flooded when cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do to keep your ducts tidy and working well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you 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 replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It should be able deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact a professional.
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 occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly 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, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system again.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is the issue with your system.
