The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great option to get into the nooks and crannies and loosen any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools on hand before you begin. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can return to your home and turn on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts tidy and working well. To prevent dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause 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 a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and help avoid prolonged 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 possible.
A common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to many different causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. Filters that are blocked can restrict 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 manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is also a good idea 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 examine for air leaks within the hoses, and ensure a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of leak. This can be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat 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 and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check 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. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected for any signs of rust or damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.
