The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns cooling and heating systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges a low monthly rate to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned when necessary.
It is also recommended to perform 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 airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the mainstay of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off it is now time to clean up any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils must be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse with a garden hose. When washing the coils, it is essential not to use excessive force since the fins are easily bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should examine them for indications of damage. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup, you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to ensure temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a network 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 reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not 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, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help stop clogging, which could result in a decrease in system efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts cleaner. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those with respiratory issues.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove the toxins and ensure that your HVAC system functions effectively. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you replace your filter on a regular basis It may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for certain is to have your ducts tested. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect your productivity and cause downtime for equipment. Regular maintenance can help you identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment is in good working order for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to change or clean the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
In addition, a clogged filter can also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A belt or pulley that is loose can slip and lead to compressor overheating and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will check for leaks in the hoses, and a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a risky problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most neglected maintenance items. Examine your thermostat if you observe inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat may get dirty. This could cause it to display in a wrong manner. You can avoid these problems by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A defective sensor or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and result in excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for your HVAC and thermostat If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat. If the breaker tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Find indications of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial property. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues, or are unsure of the issue, always call in an expert.