The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding the outdoor units free of debris will promote proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your condenser for your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly 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 source to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker at your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your motors and electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the crevices and nooks and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools available before you begin. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a water 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, inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs can be utilized to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
If 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 conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring outside air into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may be laden with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are a few actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and in good working order. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can result in a lower efficiency of the system and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is another method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tight and protected from moisture getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system functions effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles in your ductwork, and can recommend suitable cleaning schedules based upon your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly it could affect your productivity and lead to the equipment to shut down. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your unit as good as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. One possibility is that the compressor may be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, a blocked filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and need to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A worn belt or pulley can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a great idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a potentially dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat is in need of a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is known as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC and thermostat if your system 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.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having any other problems or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.