The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a water hose. It is essential not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
If the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and start your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This clogs the air filters which reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common indicators that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.
