The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to have your system checked, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart 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 relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
It is the first step. It is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great option to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove any dirt, dust or other debris that has collected.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin, though, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the garden hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
Once the coils and fins are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that 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 the home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and methods. There are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and in good working order. First, change your filter regularly to keep dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another way to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and help to improve air flow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health concerns for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once 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 replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and lead to equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These regular checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A typical indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be due to various factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be under-performing due to inadequate airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. If the filter is blocked it can impede airflow to the compressor and lead to overheating. To avoid this, it is essential to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will eliminate moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the pressure sensor and compressor.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not too surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there is any issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, yet maintaining your thermostat properly is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. You can prevent these issues by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a flawed calibration could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy costs, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re experiencing any other issues or unsure of what is wrong with your system.