The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when 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 areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being flooded when cleaning.
Once the power is off and you are able to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated 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 dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with a garden hose. It is crucial not to apply too much 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 that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you 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 properly and you regularly change your filters, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. The best way to determine for sure is by having your ducts tested. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates found in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, this could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor could be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. 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 can get dirty. This could cause it 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 a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as it can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to save energy and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the life of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call a professional if you are having other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.
