The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to get the system checked, fixed or cleaned if required.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent expensive repairs and extend the life span of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by turning off the breaker on your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clean up any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has a crevice tool is a great tool to reach into the nooks, crannies and remove dirt or dust that has accumulated.
The next step is to clean the coils. Before doing this however, ensure you have a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer and the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the directions on the product’s label and then rinse it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool called a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout your home. Air is transported from the evaporator of your condenser to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t properly cleaned and sealed, they may become loaded with dust and other pollutants. This could block air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and can strain your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires professional equipment and techniques. However, there are some actions you can take regularly to make sure your ducts remain clean and functioning well. To stop dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help prevent clogging, which can lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is an additional method to keep your ducts clean. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will remove all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has built up over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, 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 exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems, particularly in children and the elderly. In addition, moisture in ductwork may cause the growth of mold which releases spores into air and poses health risks for those who suffer from respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to eliminate these contaminants and ensure your HVAC system is working efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed properly, and you change your filter regularly, it may not be necessary to clean them. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to measure the amount of particles in your ductwork and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules that are based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical element of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause downtime for 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 is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in the compressor. It could be caused by several different factors. One possibility is that a compressor could be overworking because of poor airflow. This can cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another common problem. Filters that are clogged can reduce airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is important to clean or change the filters in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be a sign that the bearings must be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A worn belt or pulley can cause slippage and cause overheating of the compressor and 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 parts. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid near the compressor could be an indicator of a leak. This is a potentially dangerous issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is like the boss of your entire HVAC system, and it’s no surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble arises. A well-maintained thermostat is crucial to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive 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 with an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a flawed calibration could cause your system to cycle on and off in a continuous manner. This is called short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved by replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat if your system doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has been tripped, it will need to be reset to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust 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 prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort, and extend the longevity of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building comfortable all year. Make sure to contact an expert if you’re having other issues or aren’t sure what’s going on with your system.
