The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling 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 maintenance plan that allows you to pay a monthly fee to have the system checked and cleaned, or repaired as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin taking down any large debris that could be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate, a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, and then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins are easily bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other contaminants. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts clean. 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 will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing microbes that can harm those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by keeping your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that have become blocked can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to overheating of the compressor and other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check 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 an issue. 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
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to connect with the system again.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great method to reduce energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial building. It also increases the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure the issue make sure to contact an expert.
