The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your cooling and heating system, 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 where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system is likely to struggle to cool and may even fail to function properly. This is why cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air cooling.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the 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.
Once the power is off, you can begin to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great method to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure you have several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs can be used to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. After about 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they may become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to ensure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. First, you should change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can result in a lower efficiency of the system and a high energy bill.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is by regularly vacuuming the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues especially in children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good working order for as long as is possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a reduction in cooling capacity, but this could be due to various factors. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common issue. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is crucial to clean or replace the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose pulley or belt can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will help remove moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s an issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your thermostat and HVAC equipment If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial property. It also increases the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about the issue you should always consult an expert.