The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it concerns heating and cooling systems. It will help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of any debris to ensure 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, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is a crucial component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to complete. This simple DIY task can prevent the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and extend the longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being over-saturated when cleaning.
After the power is off, you can start clearing any large objects that could be blocking the condenser’s air. This means cleaning up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the crevices and nooks and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools available before you begin. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the directions on the product’s label and rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones dropped by lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for improved airflow and coil performance.
After you have a proper coil and fin setup then you can turn on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a duct system. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they could become clogged with dust and other pollutants. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires the help of professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take on a regular basis to ensure your ducts stay clean and functioning well. First, change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating up in the ducts. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all traces of dust, crumbs and other messes that have been accumulating over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could result in mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory issues and allergies particularly for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is generally recommended that you get your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is operating effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ specific testing methods to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It has to function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating as it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and prevent unnecessary downtime. These regular checks will 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. It could be caused by a variety of causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another frequent issue. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to 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 close to the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This is a serious issue and should be repaired 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 too surprising that a technician will check the thermostat first when there is any issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs an inspection include inaccurate temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the device to display incorrectly. You can prevent these issues by regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on continuously. This is called short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks can prevent expensive repairs in the future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it is possible.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to cut down on energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It will also extend the life of heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Just remember that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.