The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area around outdoor units clear of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an important aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to accomplish. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up around or on the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Make sure you have a few essential tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate, a pump up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins can bend easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks that are thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
When the fins and coils are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they can become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This clogs the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay in good condition and function properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This will also help to keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all the dust and crumbs that build up over time, and will help to improve airflow through the vent. It’s also important to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions especially in the elderly and children. Moisture in ductwork can also result in the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to gauge the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will recommend the appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this can impact your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
The most common sign of a compressor problem is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in pipes, and ensure a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors will become dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC equipment and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having other issues or unsure of what is going on with your system.
