The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure that you have on-hand several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and rinse with the hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail or stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure improved airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a difficult task that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork 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 and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it can affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Additionally, a blocked filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for any indications of rust or damage. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or aren’t sure the issue you should always consult an expert.
