The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, routine maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan that charges the monthly cost to get the system checked, repaired or cleaned when required.
You should also carry out some DIY maintenance throughout the year. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area around outdoor units free of clutter to allow for the proper flow of air.
Clean the Condenser
The coils of the condenser of your air conditioner are at the heart the cooling process. If they’re dirty, you system will struggle to cool, and it could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It’s also fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will save you money, prevent costly repairs and prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner.
First and foremost, it is important to disconnect the power to your unit. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from becoming oversaturated when cleaning.
Once the power is off, you can begin taking down any large debris that may be hindering the condenser’s air. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with a crevice tool is an excellent way to reach into the crevices, nooks and remove dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils require to be cleaned. Make sure you have some essential tools in your arsenal prior to beginning. This will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner on according to the instructions on the label of the product and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins can bend easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, the impact of hail and stones that are thrown by lawnmowers and other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them to improve air flow and aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When the fins and coils are in good shape If you are satisfied with the condition of your fins and coils, return to your house and turn on your air conditioner. After approximately 24 hours, you can check the thermostat and make sure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air travels from the evaporator coil in your condenser unit and then to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. If the ducts aren’t cleaned and sealed, they can be laden with dirt and other contaminates. This could block air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system as well as burdens your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is 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, you should change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from building into the ducts. This will also help to stop clogging, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and higher energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts clean is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. By using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time and help to improve air flow through the vent. It’s also important to ensure that your ducts are tightly sealed and insulated to keep out moisture which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that aren’t regularly cleaned can be filled with a wide variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can worsen allergies and respiratory problems particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory ailments.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC works efficiently. If your ducts are well-sealed, and you regularly change your filter it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to determine the truth is to have your ducts tested. A licensed contractor can employ specific testing methods to determine the amount of particulates in your ductwork and can recommend appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It has to function properly to provide cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating properly and isn’t functioning properly, it could impact your productivity and result in downtime for your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues early, preventing excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by making sure that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem in a compressor. This could be caused by several different reasons. A compressor may be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and decrease the life of the compressor. Another issue that is common is a clogged filter. Filters that are clogged can reduce 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.
In addition, a clogged filter may also cause rattling noises in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts on a regular basis. A belt or pulley that is loose can cause slippage and cause compressor overheating and other problems. It is also a good idea to drain your compressor regularly. This will get rid of moisture that can cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will examine for leaks in hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Finally, a small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous problem and needs to be fixed immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, shut off the air compressor and call a professional.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat acts 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 arises. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is crucial for ensuring your HVAC system’s proper operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or continuous cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors may become dirty over time, which could cause the device to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration can also lead to your system continuously switching on and off that is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort, and cause unnecessary wear and tear to the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the batteries in your thermostat 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 and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it will have to be reset to allow the thermostat to communicate with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Check for dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Lastly, the fan blades must be inspected for signs of rust or damage. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great strategy to cut down on energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial space. It will also extend the lifespan of cooling and heating equipment. It is possible to keep your building comfortable throughout the year by identifying problems with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Make sure to contact a professional if you are having any other problems or unsure of what is going on with your system.
