The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is essential when it comes to HVAC and cooling systems. It can help you avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. Most HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay a monthly fee to have the system inspected and cleaned or repaired when needed.
You should also perform some DIY maintenance throughout the year. Cleaning or replacing air filters and keeping the area surrounding outdoor units clear of clutter will help ensure proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside your air conditioner’s condenser are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. Cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. It is, fortunately, quite simple to do. This simple DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your air cooling.
In the beginning, it is crucial to shut off the power supply to your unit. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
After the power has been shut off and you are able to clear any large debris obstructing the air condenser unit. This means sweeping away any leaves, sticks or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. A shop vacuum equipped with crevice tools is a great tool to get into the crevices, nooks and remove dust or dirt that has built up.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you do this however, ensure you have several essential tools. These will include a concentrate for coil cleaning and a pump-up garden hose and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the product’s label and then rinse using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important not to apply too much force since the fins are easily bent.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage after cleaning. Over time hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. If the fins are bent, a cost-effective tool known as a fin-comb can straighten them for better air flow and also to assist in ensuring that the coils operate more efficiently.
When you have a great coil and fin set up and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you can examine the thermostat to ensure that the temperature is normal.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works to bring air from outside into your home, then cool it and then distribute it throughout your house. Air is transported from the evaporator inside your condenser unit to your home’s registers and vents via the system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and strains your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork is a challenging task that requires expert equipment and techniques. But, there are actions you can take regularly to ensure your ducts are in good condition and function properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter on a regular basis. This will also help to prevent clogging, which can result in a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Vacuuming the area surrounding the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts cleaner. Utilizing the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, you can get rid of all dust and crumbs that build up over time, and help to improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed tightly and are lined to stop moisture from entering, which can result in mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that have not been cleaned on a regular basis can become loaded with a wide variety of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can cause a flare-up of allergies and respiratory conditions, especially for children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores in the air and can cause health issues for those suffering from respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ductwork every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. If your ducts have been well-sealed, and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. You can only be sure that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor who is accredited by the EPA can use specific testing methods 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 an essential component of the system. It has to be able to supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working in the way it should it could affect your productivity and result in equipment downtime. Preventive maintenance can help spot small issues early, preventing excessive downtime. Conducting these regular checks can also help you save money by keeping your unit in good condition for as long as it is possible.
The most common indication of a problem with a compressor is a reduction in cooling capacity, but it could be caused by many different causes. A compressor could be working too hard due insufficient airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A clogged air filter is another frequent problem. Filters that are clogged can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or replace the filters according to manufacturer’s instructions.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could indicate that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. Regularly replacing pulleys and belts is an excellent idea. A worn-out belt or pulley can cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor frequently. This can remove accumulated moisture that can corrode the motor and other components. A professional service team can examine for air leaks within the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired right away. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the air compressor. Get a professional to assist you.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that a technician will always check the thermostat first when there is an issue. A well-maintained thermostat is essential for the proper operation of your HVAC system. It’s among the most neglected maintenance items. Check your thermostat if you find inaccurate temperature readings, non-responsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display inaccurately. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will aid in avoiding these issues and help you save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can have a negative impact on your comfort as well as cause excessive wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately, these issues can often be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s a good idea to check the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker tripped it, you’ll need to reset it in order for your thermostat to communicate again with the system.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for signs of wear or damage. Examine for dust or dirt and make sure that the thermostat is not too much exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Basic HVAC maintenance is a great way to reduce energy costs and keep your comfort in a commercial building. It will also extend the lifespan of heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building at all times comfortable by identifying issues with your thermostat, then resetting your breaker and replacing your batteries. Just remember that if you have any other issues, or are unsure of the issue you should always consult a professional.