The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air cooling.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking away 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 get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance 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 inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
When you have a great coil and fin set up then you can turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and will aid in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory issues particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter could create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings need to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indicator of leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult an expert.