The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that allows you to pay an annual fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when needed.
It’s also recommended to do some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser of your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will help you save money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the lifespan of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting 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.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to remove any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have the necessary tools on hand before you start. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, and then rinse it off with the hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other items can damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more effectively.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and start your air conditioning. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat and ensure that the temperature is normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires expert equipment and techniques. There are some things you can do regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This will also help to prevent the clogging that can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional way to keep your ducts clean. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and will assist in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to ensure that your ducts are properly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can become loaded with a myriad of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger allergies and respiratory conditions, especially in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may result in the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts are sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. An accredited contractor can use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It needs to operate correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly, it can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment as efficient as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common indication of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different reasons. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. If the filter is clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. It is important to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be a sign of an issue. This could be a dangerous problem that should be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. The most common signs that your thermostat is in need of an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. This is referred to as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your HVAC and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it possibly can.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Just remember that if you have any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system, always call in an expert.