The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned if needed.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or at 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, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the crevices and nooks and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before you begin however, ensure that you have on-hand some essential tools. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force as the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
If the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and working well. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those with respiratory issues.
It is recommended to 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 regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching off and on, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.
