The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it comes to heating and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have the system checked, repaired or cleaned if needed.
It’s also an excellent idea to carry out some of the DIY maintenance tasks throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the areas around outdoor units clear of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils in your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, your system will be unable to cool properly and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also 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 longevity of your AC unit.
It is the first step. It is important to disconnect the power to your unit. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker in your electrical box or at the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will keep your motors and other electrical components from being oversaturated during cleaning.
After the power has been turned off, you can start taking down any large debris that could be blocking the condenser air. This means sweeping up any sticks, leaves, or other debris that has built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has been accumulating.
The coils need to be cleaned. Before you do this however, make sure that you have in your possession several essential tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates and a pump-up garden sprayer as well as the garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner according to the instructions 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.
After the coils have been cleaned, you should inspect them for any indications of damage. Over time, hail and rocks thrown from lawnmowers or other objects can cause damage to coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When the fins and coils are in good condition If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to ensure the temperatures are in good shape.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring outside air into your home, cool it, and then distribute it throughout your home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil of the condenser unit to your home’s vents and registers through a duct system. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they could be laden with dust and other contaminants. This can block the air filters which reduces the efficiency of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task that requires professional equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts are clean and well-functioning. To stop dust and allergens from building up in the ducts, it is recommended to change your filter on a regular basis. This can also help keep clogs from occurring, which could lead to a reduced system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that have accumulated over time. This will increase airflow through the vent. Also, make sure that your ducts are sealed well and are lined to stop moisture from getting in, which could cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts aren’t cleaned regularly, they could accumulate a variety of contaminants like 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 also cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing spores that are harmful to people suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you clean your filters frequently, duct cleaning may not be required at all. The best way to know for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor accredited by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles that are present in your ductwork. They can then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an essential component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t functioning in the way it should, it can affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help identify small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by ensuring that your equipment is in good shape for as long as is possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a typical indication of a problem with a compressor. This can be caused by several different causes. One possibility is that the compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common problem. If the filter is clogged, it can reduce the airflow to the compressor and cause overheating. To prevent this from happening, it is crucial to clean or change the filters frequently, according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause a rattling sound in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings require to be changed. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is a good idea. A pulley or belt that is loose can cause the compressor to overheat and cause other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the pipes, and ensure an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
A puddle of liquid in the vicinity of the compressor could be an indication of leak. This is a serious issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and contact a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the head of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing that a technician will look at when trouble occurs. A properly maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most frequently neglected maintenance items. The most common signs that your thermostat requires a check-up include incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which can cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. You can avoid these problems by checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a an additional thermometer.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may cause your system to keep turning on and off that is known as short cycling. This can negatively impact your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. These issues can be resolved 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 as well as your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to be able to communicate with the system once more.
Check your thermostat for signs of wear and tear. Check for signs of dirt or dust, and make sure the thermostat isn’t too exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades for evidence of damage or rust. These simple checks will help prevent expensive repairs in the future, and will ensure that your equipment is operating as efficiently as it can.
Basic maintenance of hvac is a great method to reduce energy costs and ensure comfort in your commercial building. It can also prolong the lifespan of your cooling and heating equipment. By identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and replacing the batteries, you’ll be able to keep your building comfortable all year round. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having any other problems or are unsure of what’s the issue with your system.