The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your cooling and heating system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or replacements that are not needed as soon as they should be. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan that charges a monthly fee to have your system checked and cleaned or repaired when required.
It’s also a good idea to perform some DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills and prolong the life of your air conditioning unit.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be accomplished by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will protect your motors and electrical components from being over-saturated during cleaning.
Once the power has been shut off, you can begin clearing any large debris that may be blocking the condenser’s air. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks or other debris that has accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has accumulated.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this, though, make sure that you have in your possession 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 in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off using a hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should look them over for any signs of damage. Over time, hail and rocks dropped by lawnmowers or other items can damage coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and performance of the coil.
Once the coils and fins are in good condition Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the fins and coils, you can return to your house and switch on your air conditioning. After approximately 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that temperatures are normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which reduces the effectiveness of your system as well as strains your AC unit.
In most cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy job and requires professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To avoid dust and allergens accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter frequently. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around the vent openings. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and help to improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts are sealed tightly and are insulated to prevent moisture from entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in the elderly and children. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It’s generally recommended that you have your ductwork cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system functions efficiently. However, if your ducts are sealed properly and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are suitable for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It should be able provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment as efficient as possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear down and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is a different problem. If the filter has become clogged it can impede airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters on a regular basis, based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat and create other issues. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also check for air leaks in the hoses, and ensure an adequate seal between the compressor and pressure switch.
A puddle of liquid close to the compressor could be an indication of leak. This is a serious problem and needs to be fixed right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your entire HVAC system, and it’s not a surprise that it’s the first thing a technician will inspect when a problem arises. A well-maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Over time the thermostat’s sensors can become dirty. This can cause it to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off continuously. 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 thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all, it’s a good idea to check the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll have to be reset in order for the thermostat to communicate with the system once more.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. The fan blades should be checked for signs of damage or rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Basic hvac maintenance is a great method to cut down on energy costs and maintain comfort in your commercial space. It also increases the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, setting the breaker and replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Just remember that should you encounter any other issues, or aren’t sure what’s wrong with your system, always call in a professional.
