The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being flooded during cleaning.
When the power is turned off and you are able to clean up any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated 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 get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools available before you begin. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters, which decreases the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can 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 clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and lead to downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as it is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Finally, a pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of 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 by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your system 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, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and will ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year round. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.
