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. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges the monthly cost to have your system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. These include cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of your condenser for your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential aspect of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for expensive repairs, save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker inside your 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.
Once the power is off, you can begin to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This includes 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 an excellent way to reach into the nooks and crannies and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have the necessary tools on hand before you begin. These include a concentrate of the coil cleaner and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions on the label, then rinse with the water hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force as the fins can bend 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 items could damage the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins to ensure better airflow and performance of the coil.
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 turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to make sure temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and distributing it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator of your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via a system of ducts. If these ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This causes air filters to become blocked, 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 task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. But, there are things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts remain in good condition and function properly. To stop dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This can also help prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will take away all traces of dust, crumbs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. It is also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a wide variety of contaminants, including dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly for children and the elderly. Moisture can also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you clean your filters frequently the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can only be sure by having your ducts checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA can employ special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working as it should it could affect your productivity and result in the equipment to shut down. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit as good as possible.
A loss of cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by a variety of causes. A compressor may be operating too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This can indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A loose belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team can check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
Lastly, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your HVAC system, so it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing that a technician will check when trouble occurs. It’s also among the most often neglected maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s proper operation. The most common signs that your thermostat needs periodic inspections include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time, the sensors on your thermostat will become dirty. This could cause it to display incorrectly. You can avoid this issue by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a the use of a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration could result in your system constantly turning on and off, which is referred to as short cycling. This could have a negative effect on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. The problem can be fixed by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breaker.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will require resetting to allow the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat isn’t excessively exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades need to be examined for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as it possibly can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional should you encounter any other issues or are unsure of what’s wrong with your system make sure to contact a professional.
