The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure 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’re dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin removing any large debris that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools available before you start. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up, you can start your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through a system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been regularly cleaned can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently 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 contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular 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 operating properly, it can impact your productivity and cause interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is recommended. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to save energy and ensure comfort in your commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.
