The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
Maintenance is crucial when it is concerned with cooling and heating systems. It will allow you to avoid costly repairs or premature replacement. The majority of HVAC companies offer a service plan that you pay a low monthly rate to have your system checked out, fixed or cleaned as necessary.
You should also perform 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 in the condenser of your air conditioner are the primary component of the cooling process. If they’re dirty the system is likely to struggle to cool and could even fail. This is why cleaning them is an essential part of HVAC maintenance. Fortunately, it is also relatively simple to complete. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air cooling.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit first. This can be done by shutting off the breaker in the electrical box, or the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded while cleaning.
After the power has been shut off, you can begin to clear any large debris that is obstructing the air condenser unit. This includes sweeping off any sticks, leaves, or other debris that have accumulated around or on the unit. A shop vacuum with a crevice tool is a great way to reach into the nooks and crannies, and loosen dirt or dust that has been accumulating.
The coils require to be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools on hand before you start. This will include a coil cleaner concentrate and a pump-up garden sprayer and a garden hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance with the directions on the label, then rinse it off with a hose. When washing the coils it is important to not use too much force since the fins can be bent easily.
After the coils have been cleaned, look them over for any indications of damage. Over time, the impact of hail and stones thrown from lawnmowers or other items could damage the coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them to improve air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more effectively.
When you have a great coil and fin setup then you can switch on your air conditioner. Make sure to check the thermostat after 24 hours to confirm that the temperatures are in good shape.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout the home. The air is moved from the evaporator coil inside your condenser unit to the vents and registers of your home through a duct system. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other pollutants if they are not cleaned and sealed properly. This can block the air filters and reduces the efficiency of your system and puts strain on your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork isn’t an easy task and requires the help of professional equipment and methods. There are some things you can do regularly to ensure that your ducts are clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, you should change your filter regularly. This will also help keep clogs from occurring, which could cause a decrease in efficiency and a higher cost for energy.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different way to keep your ducts in good shape. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the cobwebs, crumbs and other debris that has accumulated over time. This will improve airflow through the vent. You should also make sure that your ducts have been sealed well and are protected from moisture entering, which can cause mold and other biological contaminants.
If ducts are not cleaned regularly, they can collect a variety of pollutants such as dust, pet dander and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory issues and allergies, especially for older people and children. Moisture can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, which releases the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended that you clean your ducts once every three to five years to eliminate these contaminates and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. If your ducts have been sealed well and you change your filter regularly it might not be necessary to clean them. The best way to be able to tell for sure is by having your ducts examined. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use specific testing methods to determine the amount of particles found in your ductwork. They will then recommend cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important element of the system. It needs to operate properly to deliver cool air to the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect the efficiency of your business and lead to interruption to your equipment. Preventive maintenance can help identify minor issues earlier, avoiding excessive downtime. Regular checks can also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A reduction in cooling capacity is a common sign of a problem with the compressor. It could be caused by a variety of reasons. One possibility is that a compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can wear out the bearings and reduce the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is a different problem. If the filter has become clogged it could reduce the airflow to the compressor, which can cause overheating. To prevent this, it is important to clean or replace the filters regularly based on the recommendations of the manufacturer.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could mean that the bearings are wearing out and must be replaced. It is recommended to replace belts and pulleys regularly. A loose belt or pulley can slip, causing the compressor to overheat and create 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 check for air leaks in the hoses and a tight seal between the compressor and the pressure switch.
A small puddle of water around the compressor could be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This can be a dangerous issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is kind of like the boss of your HVAC system, and it’s not surprising that it’s the first thing a technician will check when trouble arises. It’s also one of the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet an appropriately maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if you notice incorrect temperature readings, non-responsive controls, or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can become dirty over time, which may cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Monitoring your thermostat’s accuracy regularly with a separate thermometer will help you avoid these problems and conserve energy.
A malfunctioning sensor or calibration may lead to your system continuously switching on and off this is known 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 corrected by the simple act of replacing the batteries in your thermostat or resetting its breakers.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way it’s recommended to examine the breakers that control both the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped then you’ll have to reset it in order for your thermostat to reconnect with the system.
Examine your thermostat for signs of wear and damage. Look for dust or dirt and ensure that the thermostat is not overly exposed to the sun. Check the fan blades for signs of rust and damage. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and ensure that your equipment is running as smoothly as possible.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut the cost of energy, maintain comfort and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. You can keep your building cool throughout the year by identifying any issues with your thermostat, resetting your breaker and changing your batteries. Be sure to call an expert if you’re having any other problems or unsure of what is wrong with your system.