The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan where you pay an affordable monthly fee to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned if necessary.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s also quite simple to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. You can do this by shutting off the breaker on the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is an excellent way to reach into the nooks, crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have on-hand several essential tools. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is crucial not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils, because the fins may be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, inspect them for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other objects can cause damage to the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool called a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and help the coils function more efficiently.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup and you are ready to switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy job and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are a few actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. First, change your filter on a regular basis to keep dust and allergens from building in the ducts. This will also help prevent clogging, which can cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs that 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 insulated to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could build up a myriad of contaminants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can trigger respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years in order to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you regularly change your filter, it may not be necessary to clean them. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A certified contractor can employ special testing methods to measure the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It has to function correctly to supply cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning as it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding unnecessary downtime. Performing these routine checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good condition for as long as it is possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and diminish the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a blocked filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as an adequate seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A pool of water in the vicinity of the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that technicians will always examine the thermostat first if there’s any issue. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common indicators that your thermostat requires periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may result in your system constantly turning on and off this is known as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort and result in unnecessary wear and tears on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has been tripped, it will require resetting in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. This simple check will help avoid costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Be sure to call a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system.
