The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out a few DIY maintenance tasks 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 the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay 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 an essential part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker at the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
When the power is turned off it is now time to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before you begin however, make sure that you have in your possession a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates, a pump up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins are easily bent.
You should inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other items can damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is transported from the evaporator in the condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and well-functioning. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know the truth is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as is possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with the compressor. This can be caused by a variety of factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is essential to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of a leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching off and on this is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact 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 thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. 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’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year round. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.