The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It’s also recommended to do some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This will include taking 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 method to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools on hand before you start. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse with a hose. It is crucial not to apply excessive pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 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. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts cleaner. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues especially in the elderly and children. The moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts are sealed well and you replace your filter on a regular basis it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It must function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a loss in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is a problem. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. These issues can be resolved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it in order for 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 indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can help avoid expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.
