The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay an annual fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the space around outdoor units free of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is essential to cut off the power supply to your unit. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can start clearing any large debris that may be blocking the air condenser. This includes taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great way to get into the nooks and crevices and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. These will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off using a hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and also to help the coils function more effectively.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your home and switch on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the house. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do regularly to make sure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This also helps to stop the clogging that could result in a lower efficiency of the system and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to 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 exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into the air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
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. 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 determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles within your ductwork, and will suggest suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It must be able to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should it could affect your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, although this could be due to a number of different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there’s an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the efficient operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most overlooked maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat needs a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat with the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort, and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be fixed with the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks can help avoid costly repairs in the near future, and ensure your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort, and extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.
