The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay the monthly cost to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if needed.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your air conditioner condenser are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a vital aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s relatively simple to accomplish. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is the first step. It is essential to cut off the power source to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes cleaning up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have built up around or on the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils need to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools in your arsenal before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. It is important not to use too much pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition, you can go back to your home and turn on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can clog the air filters, which decreases the effectiveness of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other messes that have built up over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to make sure your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. The best way to know for certain is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It must function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this could affect your productivity and result in interruption to your equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify small issues early, preventing 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 it is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. This could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that a compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. It is important to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be a sign of leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s operation. Examine your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can 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, these issues can often be fixed with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Look for evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that 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 is running as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.
