The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan where you pay an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned, or repaired as needed.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of debris will promote the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, relatively simple to complete. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
First and foremost, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your electrical components and motors from being 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 means taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Be sure to have a few essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. These include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse it off using the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils since the fins could easily be bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
Once you have a good coil and fin set up then you can start your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system duct. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can clog the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as can strain your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy job and requires professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to make sure your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To avoid dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to stop clogging, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all the dust and crumbs that build up over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated 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 such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause allergies and respiratory problems particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture in ductwork can also cause the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and cause the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. This can be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings must be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also look for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most overlooked maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat can get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could cause your system to keep switching on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately the majority of these issues can be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for indications of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Remember to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system.
