The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some 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 in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label of the product and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other contaminants. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are some things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts. This can also help prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing 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 these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can impact your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. 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 an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common indicators that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Just remember that if you have any other issues or are unsure about the issue make sure to contact an expert.