The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is key when it is concerned with heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges a low monthly rate to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned when necessary.
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 area around outdoor units free of debris to promote the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
In the beginning, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that could be blocking the air condenser. This includes taking away any leaves, sticks or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice attachments is a great method to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dirt, dust or other debris that may have accumulated.
Next, it is time to clean the coils. Make sure you have the necessary tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, and then rinse it off with a 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 examine them for indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other objects can cause damage to the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and to help the coils function more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good shape Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can go back to your home and switch on your air conditioning. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. The air is transported from the evaporator in your condenser to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by the system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This causes air filters to become blocked, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork is not an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. However, there are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter frequently. This can also help keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will remove all the crumbs, cobwebs and other messes that have accumulated over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts have been sealed tight and insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they could collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems, particularly for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold which releases spores into air and can cause health issues for those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five year to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are sealed properly and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to be able to tell the truth is to have your ducts tested. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork and will recommend the suitable cleaning schedules based upon the specific circumstances.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It must function properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to assist in identifying issues that are minor and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regularly checking your unit can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in 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 diminish the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can create a rattling sound inside the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This will remove the accumulated moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses as well as a tight seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of a leak. This could be a risky issue that needs to be addressed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, but an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s optimal operation. Examine your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat using a an additional thermometer.
A faulty sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the batteries in the thermostat or resetting the breakers.
Make sure you check the breakers on both your thermostat and HVAC equipment if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it to allow your thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too much exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades should be checked for any signs of rust or damage. These simple checks will help prevent costly repairs in the near future, and help ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as it can.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the life of your cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, setting your breaker and changing your batteries. Remember to call a professional if you are experiencing any other issues or are unsure of what’s going on with your system.
