The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a service plan that charges each month to have the system inspected, repaired or cleaned as needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters, and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units free of any debris will ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they are dirty the system will struggle to cool properly and could even fail. Cleaning them is an important component of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will eliminate the need for expensive repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the longevity of your AC unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated while cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can start removing any large objects that could be hindering the condenser’s air. This will include cleaning up any sticks, leaves or other debris that have accumulated on or around the unit. A shop vacuum that has crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils must be cleaned. Before doing this however, ensure you have some essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the product label and then rinse using the hose. It is important not to use excessive pressure when washing the coils as the fins can easily be bent.
After the coils have been cleaned, examine them for signs of damage. Over time, hail, rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. Fin combs can be used 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. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout the home. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers, vents, and registers by a system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters, which in turn reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires expert equipment and techniques. There are a few things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter regularly to prevent dust and allergens out of building into the ducts. This also helps to prevent the clogging that can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t regularly cleaned, they may build up a myriad of contaminants like dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of respiratory and allergies, especially for older people and children. The moisture can cause mold to grow in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter It may not be necessary to clean them. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing techniques to determine the amount of particulates present in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a critical component of the system. It needs to operate properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and cause equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, but this could be caused by a number of different factors. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause the bearings to wear out and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different issue. Filters that are blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
A blocked filter could cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings need to be changed. Regularly replacing belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A loose belt or pulley could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor on a regular basis. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can also look for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor could be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This is a potentially dangerous problem that must be dealt with immediately. If you suspect a leak, shut off the air compressor. Consult a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts like the head of your entire HVAC system, so it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the smooth operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. Common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, ineffective controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which may cause the device to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to turn off and on constantly. This is called short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort and cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. This issue can be solved by simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
If your thermostat isn’t responding to your thermostat at all It’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that control the thermostat as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t exposed to sunlight. Finally, the fan blades must be inspected 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 possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having other issues or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.
