The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the nooks and crevices and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the garden hose. When washing the coils it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup, you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your home’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 causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This also helps to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your 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 working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of an issue. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll need to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for dirt or dust and make sure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. The fan blades must be inspected 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 possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It can also prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Just remember that if you have any other issues or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact a professional.