The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it concerns your heating and cooling system, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges an affordable monthly fee to have the system checked out, fixed or cleaned if necessary.
It is also recommended to perform DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils that make up the condenser in your air conditioner are the heart of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even fail. Cleaning them is a vital part of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This simple DIY task can avoid the need for costly repairs, and save you money on your energy bills, and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.
It is crucial to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. You can do this by shutting off the breaker in your electrical box or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will safeguard your electrical components and motors from being flooded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris that is blocking the air condenser unit. This means sweeping up any leaves, sticks, or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great way to reach into the crevices, nooks, and loosen dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have the necessary tools available prior to beginning. Included in this are a coil cleaning concentrate as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the instructions on the label, then rinse with the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply excessive force since the fins can be bent easily.
You should examine the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time hail or rocks thrown by lawnmowers and other things can harm the coil’s fins. If the fins are bent, a low-cost tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
After you have a proper coil and fin set up then you can switch on your air conditioner. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to make sure temperatures are normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is designed to bring air from outside into your home, cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is moved from the evaporator in your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents through the system of ducts. The ducts could become blocked with dust and other pollutants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This causes air filters to become blocked which reduces the efficiency of your system and strains your AC unit.
In the majority of cases, cleaning the ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and methods. But, there are actions you can take regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning well. First, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens out of building in the ducts. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Another method to keep your ducts clean is by regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can eliminate all of the cobwebs and crumbs which accumulate over time, and assist in improving air flow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are properly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions particularly in children and the elderly. Moisture can cause mold to develop in ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is generally recommended to have your ducts cleaned every three to five years to remove these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is working effectively. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be necessary at all. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A certified contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of dust particles in your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial element of the system. It has to be able to deliver cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning properly, it can affect your productivity and cause downtime for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also save you money by keeping your unit in good shape for as long as is possible.
A common indication of a problem with a compressor is a decrease in cooling capacity, although this could be caused by many different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This could wear out the bearings and reduce the lifespan of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a blocked filter. Filters that are clogged can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or replace the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are worn out and require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is recommended. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other issues. It is recommended to drain the compressor regularly. This will remove the accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team will also look for leaks in the hoses, as well as a tight seal on the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indicator of an issue. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor. Contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always look at the thermostat first when there’s a problem. A properly maintained thermostat is vital to the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s one of the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by ensuring the accuracy of your thermostat by using a a separate thermometer.
A faulty sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep switching off and on that is known as short cycling. This can adversely 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 the breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat at all it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, you will need to reset it to allow your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It’s also important to check your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and ensure your equipment is operating as smoothly as possible.
Performing basic hvac maintenance on your commercial property is an excellent way to cut down on the cost of energy, maintain comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. It is possible to keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, setting your breaker, and then replacing your batteries. Make sure that in case you experience any other issues or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact a professional.
