The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it comes to your heating and cooling system, maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. The majority of HVAC companies have a service plan where you pay each month to have your system checked 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 free of clutter will help ensure the proper airflow.
Clean the Condenser
The coils inside the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they’re dirty, your system will struggle to cool and may even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is a vital component of HVAC maintenance. It’s fairly easy to do. This easy DIY task will help you save money, avoid costly repairs, and increase the life span of your air conditioner.
It is essential to disconnect power from your unit before you disconnect it. This can be accomplished by turning off the breaker inside the electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will prevent your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded when cleaning.
When the power is turned off, you can begin to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This will include sweeping away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have built up on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has a crevice attachment is a great option to reach into the nooks and crannies and get rid of dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils must be cleaned. Be sure to have some essential tools available prior to beginning. These will include a coil cleaner concentrate 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 it off using the hose. When washing the coils, it is important to not use too much force since the fins can bend easily.
It is recommended to inspect the coils for signs of damage following cleaning. Over time, hail, stones thrown by lawnmowers, and other things can harm the coil fins. Fin combs are a great way to straighten bent fins for better airflow and coil performance.
If the fins and coils are in good condition, you can return to your house and start your air conditioning. Check the thermostat after about 24 hours to confirm that temperatures are within the normal range.
Clean the Ductwork
Your HVAC system works by bringing air in from outside, cooling it and then distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil inside the condenser unit to your house’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts may become clogged with dust and other contaminants if they are not cleaned and sealed correctly. This can block the air filters and reduces system efficiency and puts strain on your AC unit.
Cleaning the ductwork can be an extremely difficult job that requires specialized equipment and techniques. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts tidy and functioning properly. First, make sure you change your filter on a regular basis to prevent dust and allergens from accumulating into the ducts. This will also help to stop the clogging that could lead to reduced system efficiency and high energy bills.
Another way to help keep your ducts tidy is to regularly cleaning the area around vent openings. The hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner will get rid of all the crumbs, cobwebs and other debris that has been accumulating over time. This will increase the flow of air through the vent. It is 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 are not regularly cleaned are likely to be contaminated 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 can cause mold to develop in the ductwork, releasing the spores that can be harmful to those with respiratory problems.
It is recommended to clean your ducts once every three to five years to get rid of these toxins and ensure that your HVAC system is functioning efficiently. However it is possible that if your ducts are well-sealed and you change your filters regularly the cleaning of your ducts may not be required at all. You can be certain that your ducts are in good condition by having them checked. A contractor that is certified by the EPA will use special testing methods in order to measure the amount particulates that are present in your ductwork. They will then suggest cleaning schedules that are appropriate for your particular situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is an important component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t working properly, it could affect the efficiency of your business and lead to delays for your equipment. Fortunately, preventive maintenance is able to help catch minor issues early and avoid excessive downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
A decrease in cooling capacity is a typical sign of a problem with a compressor. It could be caused by several different causes. A compressor may be working too hard due to poor airflow. This can cause wear on the bearings and diminish the lifespan of the compressor. Another common problem is a blocked filter. Filters that have become blocked can restrict airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. It is essential to clean or change the filters according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
A blocked filter can cause a sound of rattling in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings need to be changed. It is recommended to replace pulleys and belts regularly. A pulley or belt that is loose could cause the compressor to overheat, causing other problems. It’s also a good idea to drain your compressor on a regular basis. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other parts. A professional service team will also examine for leaks in hoses, and an adequate seal around the compressor and pressure sensor.
Finally, a puddle of water near the compressor can be an indication of a refrigerant leak. This could be a risky issue and should be repaired immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, turn off the compressor that is running and then contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always look at the thermostat first when there is an issue. It’s also among the most frequently neglected maintenance items, but maintaining your thermostat properly is essential to ensure your HVAC system’s operation. Check your thermostat if notice incorrect temperature readings, unresponsive controls or constant cycling.
Inaccurate Temperature Readings
Thermostat sensors can get dirty over time, which could cause the thermostat to display incorrectly. Regularly checking the accuracy of your thermostat by using a separate thermometer can assist you in avoiding these issues and conserve energy.
A faulty sensor, or a faulty calibration can cause your system to cycle on and off constantly. This is referred to as short cycling. This can adversely affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be corrected by the simple act of replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting its breaker.
If your system isn’t responding to your thermostat in any way, it’s an excellent idea to look at the breakers that regulate the thermostat and your HVAC equipment. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system once more.
It is also essential to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for indications of dust or dirt, and make sure the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Examine the fan blades to find signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future, and ensure that your equipment runs as smoothly as possible.
The simple maintenance of hvac systems on your commercial building is an excellent method to cut energy consumption, ensure comfort and extend the longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, setting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries in the process, you’ll be able keep your building warm all year round. Make sure that if you have any other issues, or aren’t sure the issue, always call in a professional.
