The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes 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 in your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
Once the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has been accumulating around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great option to get into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you begin. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a water hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
When you have a great coil and fin set up, you can switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers and vents through the system ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To prevent dust and allergens from 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 high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be necessary at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, however it could be caused by various factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different issue. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to change or clean the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter may create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is a good idea. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there’s a problem. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can get dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the life of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
