The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges each month to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned as required.
It’s also a good idea to perform a few DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start taking down any large debris that may be hindering the condenser air. This includes cleaning off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has built up.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you start. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse it off using the hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones 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 to improve air flow and also to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When the fins and coils 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. After about 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be a challenging task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This can also help stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not regularly cleaned, they may accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system 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. 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 techniques to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. If the filter is blocked it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses and an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will inspect when a problem occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors may get dirty. This can cause it to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also cause your system to keep turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
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 tripped, it will need to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system again.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It can also prolong the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. You can ensure that your building stays comfortable throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.