The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges an annual fee to have your system checked, repaired 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 space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, and then rinse with the water 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 following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via the system ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and result in delays for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of reasons. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indication of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to connect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.
