The Importance of HVAC Maintenance
When it is about your heating and cooling system, maintenance is the best way to avoid costly repairs or early-than-necessary replacement. Most HVAC companies offer a maintenance plan where you pay the monthly cost to have the system checked, fixed or cleaned as required.
It’s also recommended to do some 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 of the condenser of your air conditioner are the core of the cooling process. If they are dirty, you system will struggle to cool and could even breakdown. This is why cleaning them is an essential component of HVAC maintenance. It is relatively easy to complete. This easy DIY task will save you money, avoid costly repairs and prolong the life span of your air conditioner.
It is vital to cut off the power source from your unit first. You can do this by turning off the breaker in your electrical box, or by turning off the outdoor unit disconnect switch. This will stop your motors and other electrical components from getting overloaded during cleaning.
Once the power is off it is now time to remove any large debris blocking the air condenser unit. This means taking away any sticks, leaves or other debris that have been accumulating on or around the unit. Utilizing a shop vacuum that has crevice attachments is a great way to reach into the nooks and crevices and remove any dust, dirt or other debris that has collected.
The coils require to be cleaned. Before you begin however, make sure that you have on-hand a few key tools. Included in this are coil cleaning concentrates as well as a pump-up garden sprayer, and an outdoor hose. Spray the coil cleaner in accordance to the directions on the label, then rinse it off using the garden hose. It is essential not to apply too much pressure when washing the coils because the fins may be bent.
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 can damage coil fins. If the fins are bent, an affordable tool known as a fin comb can straighten them for better air flow and to aid in the operation of the coils more efficiently.
Once you have a good coil and fin setup and you are ready to turn on your air conditioner. After around 24 hours, you should check the thermostat to ensure that the temperatures are in line with normal.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Your HVAC system is able to bring air from outside, cooling it, and distributing it throughout your home. The air moves from the evaporator coil of your condenser unit and then to your home’s vents and registers through a system of ducts. These ducts can become clogged with dust and other contaminants when they aren’t maintained and sealed properly. This can block the air filters which can reduce the effectiveness of your system and burdens your AC unit.
In the majority of instances, cleaning ductwork is not an easy task that requires expert equipment and methods. There are some actions you can take regularly to keep your ducts clean and functioning properly. To prevent dust and allergens from accumulating in the ducts, change your filter frequently. This will also help to keep the clogs from occurring which can cause a decrease in system efficiency and higher energy costs.
Cleaning the area around the vent openings is a different method to keep your ducts clean. Using the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner can remove all of the cobwebs and crumbs that accumulate over time, and aid in improving airflow through the vent. It is also essential to make sure your ducts are tightly sealed and sealed with insulation to keep out moisture, which can lead to mold and other biological contaminants.
Ducts that are not cleaned on a regular basis are likely to be contaminated with a variety of contaminants, such as dust, pet dander, and pollen. These particles can exacerbate respiratory and allergy conditions, particularly in children and the elderly. The moisture in ductwork can cause the growth of mold which releases spores in the air and poses health concerns for those suffering from respiratory issues.
It is recommended to clean your ducts every three to five years to remove these contaminants and ensure that your HVAC is operating efficiently. However If your ducts are well-sealed and you regularly change your filters it is possible that duct cleaning won’t be required at all. You can only be certain by having your ducts examined. An accredited contractor can use special testing methods to gauge the amount of particulates within your ductwork, and will suggest appropriate cleaning schedules based on your specific situation.
Check the Compressor
The compressor is a crucial component of the system. It should be able supply cool air into the ducts. If the compressor isn’t operating in the way it should, this can affect your productivity and cause delays for your equipment. However, preventive maintenance can aid in identifying minor issues early and help avoid prolonged downtime. These routine checks will also save you money by ensuring that your equipment in the best condition possible.
The most common sign of a compressor issue is a decrease in cooling capacity, although it could be caused by a number of different factors. One possibility is that the compressor may be overworking because of poor airflow. This could cause bearings to wear out and decrease the life of the compressor. A blocked air filter is another common issue. Filters that have become blocked can hinder airflow and cause the compressor to overheat. To avoid this, it is crucial to clean or change the filters regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
A clogged filter may also cause rattling sounds in the compressor. This could be an indication that the bearings require to be replaced. Regularly replacing the belts and pulleys is an excellent idea. A worn belt or pulley could cause slipping and result in overheating of the compressor and other issues. It is also a good idea to drain the compressor regularly. This will get rid of the moisture that could cause corrosion to the motor and other components. A professional service team will look for leaks in the hoses, as well as an adequate seal around the pressure sensor and compressor.
Lastly, a puddle of water near the compressor can be a sign of a leak in the refrigerant. This is a risky issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you suspect that there is a leak, switch off the air compressor and contact an expert.
Check the Thermostat
It’s not a surprise that technicians will always check the thermostat first when there’s any issue. It’s also among the most commonly overlooked maintenance items, yet a properly maintained thermostat is vital to ensure your HVAC system’s optimal 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 device to display inaccurately. Regularly checking your thermostat’s accuracy by using a separate thermometer can aid in avoiding these issues and save energy.
A malfunctioning sensor, or a wrong calibration, could cause your system to turn off and on in a continuous manner. This is known as short cycling. This can affect your comfort and cause unnecessary wear and tear on the compressor. Fortunately this can be resolved with simply replacing the thermostat’s batteries or resetting the breakers.
Check the breakers for both your HVAC equipment and thermostat in the event that your HVAC equipment doesn’t respond to your thermostat. If the breaker has tripped, it’ll require resetting in order for the thermostat to connect with the system.
It’s also crucial to examine your thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for signs of dirt or dust and ensure that the thermostat isn’t overly exposed to sunlight. Check the fan blades for signs of damage and rust. These simple checks will prevent costly repairs in the future and will ensure that your equipment operates as smoothly as it can.
Conducting basic HVAC maintenance on your commercial property is a great way to reduce energy consumption, ensure comfort and prolong the life of your heating and cooling equipment. By identifying issues with your thermostat, resetting the breaker, and then replacing the batteries and fuses, you’ll be able keep your building cool all year. Be sure to call a professional if you have any other issues, or are unsure of the issue make sure to contact an expert.