The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns HVAC and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned when needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will struggle to cool properly and may even fail to function properly. Cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is crucial to disconnect the power source from your unit first. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can start removing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Before doing this however, make sure you have several essential tools. These include a concentrate for coil cleaning, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse it off with a water hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in 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 causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires expert equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to make sure your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants 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. The moisture in ductwork can result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those with respiratory ailments.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts are sealed well and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
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 a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. It’s also one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. 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 can also result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment 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 be able to communicate with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. The fan blades need to be examined for any signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or aren’t sure what’s the issue with your system.
