The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies have a maintenance plan that allows you to pay each month to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some of the DIY maintenance tasks 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 your air conditioner condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and may even break down. Cleaning them is a crucial aspect of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and extend the life of your air conditioning unit.
First and foremost, it is essential to cut off the power source 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 getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can begin clearing any large objects that could be blocking the air condenser. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Using a shop vacuum with a crevice attachment is a great way to get into the nooks and crannies and get rid of any dust, dirt or other debris that may have accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Be sure to have some essential tools available before you begin. This will include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the label, and then rinse with a garden hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils, since the fins could easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to start your air conditioner. Check the thermostat every 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air travels from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a network of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This clogs the air filters, which in turn reduces the efficiency of the system and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning ductwork can be a difficult task that requires expert equipment and techniques. However, there are a few things you can do on a regular basis to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, change your filter regularly. This also helps to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and aid in improving air flow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not regularly cleaned can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases spores that are harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five year to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be necessary at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can employ special testing techniques to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are suitable for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential element of the system. It must be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should, this can impact the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can assist in identifying issues that are minor and prevent unnecessary downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your unit as good as possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a loss in cooling capacity, however this could be caused by various factors. A compressor could be working too hard due to inadequate airflow. This can cause the bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. Another common issue is a clogged filter. Filters that are blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To prevent this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
In addition, a clogged filter could also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are worn out and must be replaced. It is also a good idea to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose pulley or belt could cause slipping and result in compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, and an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not surprising that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also one of the most often neglected maintenance items, but a properly maintained thermostat is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if find inaccurate temperature readings, ineffective controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the sensors on your thermostat will get dirty. This can cause it to display in a wrong manner. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
Check the breakers for your thermostat and HVAC equipment in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Find evidence of dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Finally, 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.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy costs, maintain comfort, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year round. Make sure that if you have any other issues, or are unsure about what’s wrong with your system you should always consult a professional.
