The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also recommended to do some 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 proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with the water hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is moved from the evaporator of the condenser to your home’s registers and vents through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires expert equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating 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 result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly It may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates found in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will look at the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.