The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This will include sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and loosen any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator inside your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. Moisture can also cause mold to grow in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure that if you have any other issues, or are unsure about the issue, always call in a professional.