The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This means sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great way to get into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has built up.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you begin however, ensure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with the water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for signs of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good shape, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed properly. This clogs the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and in good working order. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another way 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 dust and crumbs that build up over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain by having your ducts checked. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this can impact your productivity and result in downtime for equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as is possible.
A typical sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter could cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is recommended. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor frequently. 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 and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will examine the thermostat first if there is an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections 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 the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC 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 reconnect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to save energy and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
